All aboard! As autumn settles in, we’re finding ourselves (literally) in nature and learning how to make new friends. Albeit out of leaves.

Ask

What kind of tree are you?

Branches wild and reaching everywhere, or neatly tucked in? Growing on top of a windy hill, hidden deep in an old forest, or right in the middle of a noisy park? And just who is that living up there with you?

Explore

Bring autumn indoors with these enchanting storybooks. Keep to yourself or share as the perfect birthday gift for any little Libras in your life.

Make

Who couldn’t use an extra friend this autumn? On your next walk, gather fallen leaves in as many shapes, sizes, and colours as you can find. Bring them home and let them dry.

To begin, pick a leaf for the body and add eyes using paint or markers. Next, arrange extra leaves and cut-out sections as facial features and accessories.

Let your imagination run wild! Trim jagged edges for a furry monster torso, cut curves out of broad leaves for legs, or snip small diamonds for horns and ears.

When you’re ready, stick everything down onto paper with PVA glue and place it under a heavy book so it sets flat. Finally, draw on extra arms, legs or antennae, and welcome your living leaves into the world with names.

Play

Once you've worked out what kind of tree you are, or if you’re in need of inspiration, head out to find your tree twin. Whether that’s in your back garden, the local park, or a full-blown forest.

See if you can spot one for everyone in the family — pets included, of course!

Reflect

Notice how everyone describes their tree. Listen closely to the details they pick.

It’s a simple window into their inner world without having to ask directly — grounded, adventurous, or in need of a little shelter.

Whether you actually find your tree twin, make new friends, or just come home with pockets full of leaves — we hope this newsletter is a nudge in the right direction.

Next Friday we’re getting hibernation-ready! Can’t wait? Follow FORT on Instagram for picky bits all week.