April: Nature Connection Challenge – Making Life Special

March signalled the arrival of Spring and we hope you enjoyed the challenge to capture moments through the month. We’re looking forward to memories appearing next year that will remind us of it and build a rich picture that grows from year to year.

The clocks have gone forward and with it we have longer, lighter evenings. The weather warms, leaves unfurl. gorse and blackthorn blossom colours the landscape. There are magnificent magnolia flowers appearing in gardens and birds are nesting; we’re excited about the sparrows flitting to and from our nest boxes.

As we move from March’s Photography Challenge, where we captured the beauty of everyday moments, April invites us to step beyond the lens and immerse ourselves in nature. With Earth Day on April 22nd, it’s the perfect time to embrace the outdoors, engage our senses, and reconnect with the natural world in ways that truly Make Life Special.

A Natural Progression from Photography to Presence

Last month, we focused on seeing—finding beauty in unexpected places and appreciating the world through our camera lenses. This month, we take it a step further. Instead of just observing, we want you to participate. Get outside and touch, smell, listen. April is about being present in nature and making memories that stay with us long after the moment has passed.

Ways to Connect with Nature and Make Life Special

There is something magical about pausing to notice the world around us, to hear birdsong and tune into it, to distance ourselves from the clamour of daily pressures, it’s therapeutic and rewarding.

Have you noticed the birds, how they interact with each other, obvious pairings, would be parents, competing males getting territorial, courting couples and those busy building nests. The world around us is active and full of beautiful song.

Hedgehogs are foraging and we find signs of their presence daily now. There have been the cries of foxes at night, squirrels visiting the garden and rabbits; our friendly Mr Pheasant is more vocal and more attentive, eager to show the ladies where to find food (they’ve normally visited before he shows up in truth).

1. Go on a Mindful Nature Walk

Turn a simple walk into an immersive experience. Whether you wander through woodland, a countryside trail, or a park, engage all your senses:

  • Listen to birds singing and early leaves rustling.
  • Feel the bark of a tree or the softness of fresh grass.
  • Observe the dance of sunlight through the branches.
  • Capture the scent of blooming flowers and damp earth.

To deepen your experience, leave your phone behind (this one is tough as we’re addicted to some nature apps on our phones) and focus on the present moment. If you’re inclined, bring a notebook to jot down thoughts, feelings, or even sketches inspired by what you see.

2. Create with Nature

Nature provides us with incredible materials to craft with. Instead of buying decorations, why not make something with what you find? ( Be thoughtful and stay within the law) Some ideas include:

3. Build a Bird Feeder and Welcome Wildlife

Spring is a wonderful time to encourage biodiversity in your garden. Creating a DIY bird feeder is a small act that brings joy daily as you watch birds visit your outdoor space. Simple ideas include:

  • Using recycled plastic bottles or wood scraps.
  • Rolling a pinecone in peanut butter and birdseed.
  • Hanging strings of dried fruit and seeds for a natural feeder.
4. Visit a National Trust Site

The UK is home to stunning National Trust properties, where history, nature, and culture intertwine. Take a day trip to explore ancient woodlands, historic gardens, or breath-taking coastal walks.

Whether it’s a grand estate like Chartwell (home of Winston Churchill) or the rugged beauty of Dunwich Heath, these sites offer a chance to step back in time and appreciate landscapes preserved for generations to enjoy.

5. Unplug & Reconnect Outdoors

Modern life keeps us constantly connected—but what if we switched off and tuned into nature instead? Challenge yourself to a tech-free afternoon:

  • Have a picnic in the park.
  • Lay on the grass and watch the clouds drift by.
  • Read a book outside, letting the fresh air and natural light enhance the experience.
6. Plant Something New

There’s something deeply fulfilling about growing your own plants. Whether you have a garden or just a windowsill, planting herbs, flowers, or even a tree is a meaningful way to celebrate Earth Day.

  • Herbs like basil, thyme, and mint are easy to grow and useful in the kitchen.
  • Wildflowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
  • Planting a tree contributes to the planet in a lasting way.
Making Life Special, One Moment at a Time

April is a reminder that life’s most special moments often come from simplicity—a walk in the woods, the scent of fresh rain, or the sight of a butterfly landing on a flower.

This month, take the challenge to connect with nature, not just as a spectator, but as an active participant. Step outside, engage your senses, and celebrate the beauty of the world we call home.

Helpful Links & Resources

Here are some links to help you explore and make the most of April’s Nature Connection Challenge:

We love the following apps on our phone, you may have fun with them if you don’t already:

Seek: Identify wildlife, plants, and fungi and learn about the organisms all around you

Merlin Bird ID: Identify Bird Songs and Calls

Happy exploring, creating, and celebrating nature this April! 🌿🌎

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