A Nature Filled Christmas Break in Hampshire and Beyond
As the crisp winter air settles in and the days grow shorter, I find myself craving a quieter, more nature-led Christmas break. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, I long to slow down, wrap up warm, and step outside to immerse myself in the serene beauty of the countryside.
Slowing Down, Wrapping Up Warm, and Stepping Outside
For me, the winter months are a time to reconnect with the natural world. Whether it's a brisk walk through the New Forest, exploring the charming gardens of Hampshire, or seeking out local green spaces, these moments of connection with nature have a profound impact on my work as a floral artist and nature-inspired crafter.
Exploring the New Forest in Winter
The ancient trees, roaming ponies, and misty mornings of the New Forest have a way of captivating me, year after year. As I wander the quiet forest trails, either on foot or by bicycle, I can't help but be inspired by the raw, untamed beauty that surrounds me. It's in these moments that I find the greatest inspiration for my pressed flower framed artwork and flowery frame designs.
Winter Gardens Across Hampshire
Beyond the New Forest, Hampshire boasts a wealth of stunning winter gardens that offer a peaceful respite from the colder months. From the serene landscapes of Sir Harold Hillier Gardens to the woodland views of Queen Elizabeth Country Park, these green oases provide the perfect backdrop for quiet contemplation and a renewed appreciation for the natural world.
Local Green Escapes Around Southampton
Even closer to home, the local green spaces of Southampton, such as Riverside Park, offer a simple yet profound connection to nature. These easy-to-access nature moments remind me that we don't always need grand adventures to find solace and inspiration; sometimes, the most meaningful experiences can be found right in our own backyard.
Slowhayes Alpacas and Gentle Wildlife Encounters
One of the highlights of my winter breaks in Hampshire is the opportunity to connect with gentle wildlife, such as the alpacas at Slowhayes. Spending an afternoon sipping tea and enjoying the company of these curious creatures is a truly special experience, one that reminds me to slow down and appreciate the simple joys of being present in nature.
Coastal and Wildlife Escapes
As the winter winds blow in from the Solent, I find myself drawn to the coastal landscapes of Hampshire and beyond. Whether it's a bracing walk along the South Coast or a day trip to Blakeney Point in Norfolk to witness the grey seal pups, these moments by the open water and amongst the wildlife never fail to inspire my work for creating meaningful memory pieces.
Forest and Cabin Getaways
For the ultimate in cozy, nature-filled retreats, I love to escape to the Forest Holidays cabins, where the warmth of a log burner and the serene woodland views provide the perfect backdrop for slowing down, stargazing, and reconnecting with the rhythms of the natural world. It's in these quiet moments that I find the greatest inspiration for my pressed flower framed art and nature-inspired home decor.
Activities for Nature Lovers at Christmas
As the festive season approaches, I make sure to immerse myself in a variety of nature-focused activities, from birdwatching at RSPB reserves to capturing the beauty of the New Forest and coastline through my camera lens. These mindful moments outdoors feed directly into my process of pressing flowers and creating floral artwork, allowing me to preserve the essence of the season in a truly meaningful way.
Bringing the Feeling Home
Ultimately, my winter breaks in Hampshire and beyond are not just about the experiences themselves, but about how they shape my approach to everyday life and the creation of my artwork. By turning Christmas flowers into pressed flower frames and flowery frame keepsakes, I'm able to bring the feeling of those nature-filled moments into the home, creating a lasting connection to the natural world that can be enjoyed all year round.
Closing Thoughts
As the Christmas season approaches, I find myself drawn to the quiet beauty of Hampshire and the surrounding countryside more than ever. It's in these moments of connection with nature that I find the greatest inspiration, the deepest sense of calm, and the unwavering desire to preserve the essence of the natural world through my work as a floral artist and nature inspired crafter.
Whether it's a brisk winter walk, a cosy cabin retreat, or a gentle encounter with wildlife, each experience reminds me of the importance of slowing down, stepping outside, and keeping a piece of nature close. It is my hope that through the botanical art and nature-inspired home decor of Earth Tone, I can share this feeling of wonder and reverence for the natural world with others, inviting them to reconnect with the beauty that surrounds us, even in the midst of the busiest time of year.
