Giving Nature

When I think of holiday gifts, I think of presents under the tree and people gathering inside to unwrap them. However, even though they are given deep in the winter months, holiday presents can connect us to the outdoors.

Within the last week, two sites have shared suggestions for gift ideas that can get children outside and experiencing nature.

Go Explore Nature provides these ideas for nature experiences in the backyard. As a bird-watcher, the binoculars and the field guides stand out for me. In fact, I remember how much I used to love using binoculars.

Also, as part of its Be Out There campaign, the National Wildlife Federation makes these recommendations for gifts. Topping my list from these options would the be the "owl puke" and the outdoor adventure. I used to love seeing owl pellets taken apart. The contents always fascinated me.

Heat of Winter

Winter has finally arrived in earnest in the Pacific Northwest. While I welcome the winter weather, it does pose some challenges for our energy use.

With that in mind, I found an article with tips for renters who want more efficient energy use in winter. I think the ideas could also work for homeowners.

It has some great information about the use of thermostats. I particularly like the ideas about bundling up and cooking at home. Also, the suggestion about making small improvements to your home makes for an easy way of taking action and seeing the difference.

Now, I can enjoy winter even more because I'm wasting less energy.