It might be cold outside but now is the time to really show your trees how much you love them. Sure, we appreciate trees for what they give us in the spring, summer and fall- shade, fruits and nuts, that whispering sound when the wind blows. But we forget about the trees during this time of year and this is one of the best times to get to know them.

Go outside and take a good look at the trees in your backyard or local park. Trees at this time of year can be very dramatic. Focus on how the bark looks and feels on different trees. Look up and notice how the branches are silhouetted against the sky. If you’re feeling creative, get out a camera and photograph tree silhouettes at different times of the day or from different angles.

Trees can also be silly and fun. Get creative and play a game with your tree!  Trees make great partners in hide and seek and are the perfect base in tag. You can dress up your tree with a little creativity. Make eyes, nose and a mouth out of paper and give your tree a face – add a scarf for a little whimsy!  Or build a fairy house at the base of your tree to invite some company over for your new friend.

In January, the Chattahoochee Nature Center is celebrating trees in the Nature Exchange. Throughout the month, you can “adopt” a tree that lives at CNC. There are fun learning games and activities all about trees in the Nature Exchange throughout January. And, if you trade in a tree item, you will receive 50 bonus points!

Get to know your trees and we look forward to seeing you at the Chattahoochee Nature Center.

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