Magical birthday memories with nature

It’s not fun turning 6 in COVID-19 lock-down, especially when plans to spend time with your friends for your first ‘big boy party’ get scrapped! Yet, I am in awe of my sister Frances, who has embraced the situation, drawn on her creativity, and made use of natural materials to create some magical moments for her son, Jack.

Using stones from the back garden and children’s paints, Frances and Jack created a very cute ladybird family. All dried in time to accompany them on their ‘permitted’ daily walk. Positioning them in different spaces Jack engaged in creative storytelling with his new stone friends.

A short but very exciting and memorable adventure for the ladybug family, all crafted by Jack!

The ladybird

As well as being completed impressed by Frances’ ability to fashion nature-inspired memories, I just love that this marries together so many nature, imaginative and creative play, and sustainability messages. The ladybird theme is also personally significant to me, as I’ve always believed that ladybirds symbolise good luck, and specifically times when worries begin to dissipate and new happiness can grow. For those interested in the spiritual representations of different animals, ladybirds are perceived to caution us not to try too hard, or go too fast to fulfill our dreams, but to let things flow at their natural pace.

This little montage on my nephew at play, has made me ponder on all the little things that fill my heart with joy and satisfaction.

“There’s no way that we can help children to learn to love and preserve this planet, if we don’t give them direct experiences with the miracles and blessings of nature.” – Anita Olds

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Happy 6th birthday Jack!

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