posted by Gina
So, I like rocks. A lot. What’s not to like? Rocks come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. They’re accessible. They’re inexpensive. They’re versatile. And they’re friendly. Anyone else have one of these as a kid?
I have some rocks now, less pet-like, but still important. A few years ago, I did some traveling alone after a particularly traumatic period of life, and each time I thought to myself, ‘Huh, I’m perfectly content in this moment,’ I took a rock from that spot.
A friend told me once that whenever a friend or family member did any traveling, she’d ask them to bring her a rock. I thought this was a nifty idea. The next time I found myself at a place I wanted to remember, I took a rock.
All these rocks live in my apartment, and they’re a lovely reminder of happy moments.
(In the case of non-nature spots or protected areas, I took a picture of a rock or a rock-like object. I feel it’s important to note that from the outset.)
Starting a rock collection and/or playing with rocks is something I strongly encourage. It’s easy, it’s cheap, and it gets the kids outdoors.
Some thoughts:
Start a Rock Collection
Find some rocks. Clean them. Look at them. Name them. Label them. Make a rock collection journal or notebook (maybe a stick journal? with a marbled cover?) to record characteristics, shapes, colors, location of collection, date of collection, etc. Display collection or keep jumbled together in a box for private gloating.
if you want to get all serious and scientific, here is an impressive guide to collection and identification.
Make a Rock Friend
I kind of loved that pet rock. There’s something endearing about a rock, after all. Choose a rock to take care of and personalize it on up. There’s the difficult way:
And there’s the easy way:
Which are kind of more fun, I think.
And hey, why not combine the pet-making with the collection? Maybe your rock journal includes names, hobbies, likes, and dislikes.
Think of Rocks as Thoughtful Gifts
The next time you’re on vacation the kids, pick out some rocks to bring home to friends and family. Gifted with a photo of the location and some thoughts on why this particular rock was carefully selected – sure nicer than a tshirt.
Any other fabulous rock ideas? Let us know in the comments!
LobeStir 