Holiday Gifts from Nature
A few ideas for easy, natural gifts that you can make yourself from wild, native plants. You can give them as individual gifts or even make up a gift basket with several of the items.
Madrone Berry Necklaces
Madrone berry necklace: The Madrone berries are abundant this year. Gather berries from the ground below the tree or easy-to-reach branches. Use a needle threaded with dental floss or red string to make Madrone “malas,” (prayer beads) for your family and friends to enjoy. String while fresh and then allow to dry before wearing. If you don’t have time to make your own this year, contact me at alicia@livingwild.org and I may have a few extras to share.
Cedar Smudge Sticks
Incense Cedar Smudge: Cut the ends of branches of Incense Cedar and lay on top of each other until about an inch thick. Wrap up and down tightly with brightly-colored string and then tie off in a knot. Cut off both ends so it is straight and dry well before burning.
California Bay Cleaner: Steep Bay leaves overnight and strain into an empty spray bottle. Share it as an aromatic room spray or natural house cleaner.
Native Wildflower Seeds
Native Wildflower Seeds: Purchase seeds in bulk and decorate your own seed envelope or bag with sketches or photos of native flowers.
Wreaths: Add Douglas-fir, Toyon berries and Bay leaves to make a traditional wreath unconventionally beautiful and bring a gift of natural, native arrangements to your holiday parties and events.
