WCNC 2024 NEWSLETTER #3

DAYCATCHERS

What began as a simple craft project blossomed into an incredible collection of art pieces that we joyfully created together as a group, using materials and treasures found in the various environments we explored each week. We then transformed it into an exciting interactive guessing game for the community to enjoy at our gratitude gathering!

BODEGA DUNES

While at the dunes we engaged the kids in a game where a group of blindfolded participants was taken to an unknown location and left there. The children guiding them had to ensure the safety of the blindfolded participants as they navigated the terrain. Once the blindfolds were removed, the participants used their orienteering skills and senses to find their way back to base camp. The children were so attuned and well-connected that they accomplished the task with ease.

PINNACLE GULCH

SALMON CREEK ANNUAL BEACH CLEAN UP

Our annual beach cleanup at Salmon Creek Beach was a sucess. We organized into small groups, explored the beach, and efficiently collected all the trash and garbage we encountered. We delved into discussions about the implications of discarding items and their eventual destinations. As we sorted through the collected garbage, we found that the vast majority was plastic. We discussed strategies to reduce our personal consumption and minimize waste. We also contemplated the possibility of completely eliminating waste. Can we truly re-use everything? What would it require? Imagine a world where trash or garbage simply doesn't exist.

We ended the day with one of our favorite nature club activities...

KIDS CLUB

we challenged the kids to see how many acorns they could collect in 10 minutes. we were able to collect 16 pounds! We will be drying them and then processing them into flour that we can then use to make cookies or other delicious baked goods. Acorns were a major food source for the native californians and it feels special to share this process with the children. this year in particular the coast live oaks produced and dropped a lot of acorns while the valley oaks did not drop any. we made sure to be messy and innefficient harvesters to ensure that we leave behind some acorns for all the other creatures that depend on this valuable local food source for there survival.

RAGLE RANCH

In preperation for the Day of the Dead, we crafted photo holders using wire and driftwood that we had gathered during an earlier trip to the coast. These creations displayed the photos of our ancestors and loved ones, whom we honored on the altar we build together for our Day of the Dead celebration at the cemetery.

DAY OF THE DEAD CELEBRATION

A magical day indeed, filled with an enchanting air that seemed to resonate with the whispers of the past. On this special occasion, we definitely felt the spirits of our loved ones close to us. The children came together in a beautiful display of unity and purpose. They enthusiastically crafted brooms, each one a unique creation, made from sticks, leaves, and other natural materials they could find in the surrounding area. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of reverence and respect. The children eagerly set to work, sweeping and cleaning the gravestones with care and dedication. Each stroke of the broom seemed to carry a message of love and remembrance, as they meticulously cleared away the leaves and debris that had accumulated over time. This act of service was not merely about cleaning; it was a profound way to show reverence and to honor the memory and spirits of those that are buried in the cemetery. The best part..... it was all there idea. As we built our altar together, The children shared stories about their loved ones, recounting fond memories and cherished moments, which brought a sense of warmth and connection to the day. They decorated the graves with flowers, handmade crafts, and tokens of affection, creating a vibrant tapestry of love that adorned the resting places. It was a heartwarming sight to witness young ones taking such initiative, understanding the importance of remembering and celebrating the lives of those who came before. As the day went on , it felt as though the spirits of our loved ones were smiling down upon us, grateful for the love and attention being bestowed upon them. This magical day served as a poignant reminder of the bonds that transcend time and space, reinforcing the idea that while our loved ones may no longer be with us in a physical sense, their spirits live on in our hearts and memories. The collective effort of the children not only honored the deceased but also fostered a sense of community and togetherness.

RIVERFRONT REGIONAL PARK

One of our beloved autumn traditions at nature club is crafting corn husk dolls using the husks we preserve from the popcorn we grow. As usual, the children dressed and accessorized the dolls and put on an impromptu play with them. Additionally this year, the kids challenged each other to see who could create the smallest corn husk doll.

BODEGA HEAD

A fun day reconnecting with our favorite Cypress tree

CAMPBELL COVE

Campbell Cove at low tide never disappoints! It's all about collecting crabs and figuring out whos Mr. Crab and whos Mrs. Crab. The kids discovered a patch of "quicksand" and a squid graveyard—likely bait that escaped the crab fishermen! And of course, there's the ultimate challenge: who dares to be the brave cave explorer and venture into the dark rocky depths?

LAGUNA DE SANTA ROSA

GRATITUDE GATHERING @ NEW FAMILY FARM

A Note from Joanna...

Hello Families! Ending 2024 by working with Jenny and your kids in Nature Club has been such an honor and blessing. The time we have together, learning and being, in a relaxed and fun way, is idyllic and such a pleasure. Our family has been homeschooling for about a decade now and having our kids in Nature Club has been a vital pillar in our process. Nothing tops learning in and from Nature, she’s the best teacher of all! To now be a leader in NC, alongside Jenny, guiding your kids and mine, feels so right. Thanks to you families for welcoming me in, like I said it’s an honor. I’m really looking forward to our adventures in 2025!