Pine Cone Garland

A couple of days ago the weather was nice  and my husband suggested we pack a lunch and go exploring.  This was a great idea!  We went up to a higher elevation to a ski area that isn't open yet and found a warm sunny spot.  We found some nice rocks to use in a garden area and decided to have lunch there. As I was finishing my lunch I found a huge pine tree that had the most perfect pine cones. 
So, I couldn't resist gathering as many as I thought I could use in making a garland for our patio roof.  I spray painted half of them to see what they would look like.  I used a coppery metallic color and I am pleased with the outcome. 

Whenever I get a free window of time, I will paint the rest of them.  Then I can work at stringing them for a Christmas decor outside,  and, of course adding clear mini lights.

As the day went on we drove to another spot which was loaded with elderberry bushes. We picked more
berries and I put them in the freezer to add to muffins or pancakes. 

We had a delightful day exploring.