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Show Notes

Today’s links: ely.how/episode52

Fun things to do in the winter outside

  • Stuff you need
    • Winter clothes
      • Snow pants or water resistant over pants
      • Hats
      • Insulated Winter Gloves – waterproof or water resistant
      • Garden gloves – nitrile coated – mid-30s to 40s temps
      • Winter boots/snow boots/rain boots
      • Wool socks
      • Check thrift stores, hand-me-downs
    • Other stuff
      • Tissues/paper towels
      • Lip balm
      • Old towels
      • Hand warmers
  • Motivation for your kids to get outside
    • Favorite meals after outdoor activities
    • Hot chocolate!
      • Our low-sugar/not-so-guilty recipe:
        • 4 C milk
        • 1/4 C cocoa powder
        • 1/4 C honey
        • 1/2 t vanilla
        • Directions: Mix cocoa and honey together until it becomes a paste.  Mix cocoa, honey, milk in a double boiler until nice and hot – avoid boiling.  Remove from heat.  Mix in vanilla.  Serve to happy mouths!
      • Favorite (water-free) summer activities
      • Opportunity for space, independence
  • Self motivation to get outside
    • Space!
    • Ability to work on some projects
    • Focused play
  • What to do outside
    • Let them play!
    • Attract the birds/wildlife
      • Suet
      • Seeds/feeders
      • Plants
    • Start a project – build something
      • Downhill go-kart
      • Outdoor activity bench
      • Outdoor kitchen
    • Check out Episode 27 – Backyard ideas for kids!
    • Go sledding
    • Visit a favorite or new hiking spot
    • For the super adventurous: Go camping!

Today’s favorite plant

Eastern White Pine

  • Pinus strobus
  • USDA Zone 3-8
  • 80ft tall, 40ft wide
  • Full sun
  • Prefers moist, rich, well drained, acidic soil
  • Really grows in wide variety of conditions
    • Can have issues in heavily clay or alkaline soils
  • Rapid growth rate
  • Loose form