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Martin Hughes's avatar

A lovely list. I've done several of these things from time to time, though not as a regular tradition. That said, mindful winter walks make their seasonal appearance as if by tradition, so I'll take it!

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Ali Edwards's avatar

Thanks Martin! Having a dog means that I'm out walking every day, regardless of the weather. I find that means I can take walking outside a bit for granted and I do often have to remind myself to enjoy the experience and walk more mindfully - so I think this is a good one for anyone!

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Zoe's avatar

I love the idea of a phenology journal, I might use that in some of my journaling this year. Lovely to have found you.

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Ali Edwards's avatar

Thanks Zoe! If you need some support with the phenology journaling, Bethany Milam is doing an online workshop on Phenology Wheels for nature journaling next Monday (13th Jan) - https://www.milamarts.org/section567940_378620.html

I've done some of Bethany's workshops before and I always come away with tonnes of tips and feeling very inspired!

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Andrea Brennan's avatar

Great suggestions! Many years ago, I started a phenology journal (without realizing that was what I was doing!) and I now have so many years to look back on and compare changes in weather, plant and animal patterns. Easy to do and full of valuable observations in this changing world.

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Ali Edwards's avatar

It must be fascinating to look back on! As a gardener, I know it would be interesting to track weather patterns in a more formal way, along with when shoots emerge, etc. Now I just have to hope for a nice new notebook/journal under the Christmas tree...!

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Rachel Goddard's avatar

What a lovely set of ideas Ali, especially the links to historical traditions. New Year's Day walks have long been a tradition for me but I'll definitely add a few more of these.

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Ali Edwards's avatar

Got to love a New Year’s Day walk - it is much easier to see all sorts of wildlife in mid-winter as there’s just less foliage, etc, in the way!

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Amy's avatar

This is lovely Ali. I love how you have linked the traditional feats days etc to connecting with the natural world. I enjoy several of these activities and am hoping to continue with them through winter, but this is a great reminder to stay tuned in to the season. Thank you.

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Ali Edwards's avatar

Thanks Amy - glad you enjoyed reading it!

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