What isn't there to LOVE about nature?

Half-term for lot's of schools and colleges is happening around now and it's the perfect excuse to get out and about. With everyone being indoors studying or working take this opportunity to get everyone out feeling the wind on their face and hopefully some sun on their faces. It will do them all a world of good!  It may be chilly outside but going for a lovely long walk or a sightseeing adventure is wonderful at this time of year. Then coming home for delicious hot chocolate and maybe a toasted crumpet! Perfect.

I have come up with a little idea that can add to the fun outside at the half term - or any day really. It's an enchanting  'make your own map project' - it contains a preprinted map, some paper to make your own  and instructions. All packaged lovingly for you to take on your journey - whether it be a local woods, your favourite walk in the countryside, the play park or your garden.  The thinking behind it is to make a  memento for your day out.
As you can see from the one I have done I have added special places from  my imagination - roughly based on places I have been - for example - ......

The way to make your own, or the child in your life one is to roughly sketch out the place where you have visited.

Then using paints (you can use felt tips or coloured pencils instead but paints are better) lightly colour in the different areas - for example a pond, or a river, or a field - like this -

Then when the paint is dry carefully connect it all together with a fine black pen.

The last thing to do is too add your name places to the finished map. These can either be real name places or your own ones made up. Personally I think a mixture of both makes for a fun and interesting memory.
 (Adding a compass sign adds a nice touch).

Then last but not least date and name your work.

So lovely to have as a keepsake of an exciting and fun day out!

Isn't the heart a strange shape?      Of course for commercial reasons it has been transformed into a more aesthetic shape that is pleasing to the eye.     Obviously at this time of year there are hearts everywhere - however nature can produce many itself too.

A few months ago whilst walking along the seafront (for a change) I happened upon a heart shaped stone - it was next too a weather beaten groin, and I just had a thought to pop it on the top.    A little adjusting and a few minutes later a beautiful photo was formed. I just love the ease and simplicity of this photo.  Using a black & white film instead of colour really adds to the picture being uncomplicated.       I think it's simple and striking and really shows how wonderful nature can be.  

This BLOG is short but sweet 'cos that's sometimes how it is!

Thank you for reading my BLOG - hope you have enjoyed it. Feedback welcome.

Vicky :-)

creative minds are rarely tidy