The crisp air outside is incentive enough to think of a few ways to have some eco-fun on the run!

Now that the leaves are at their glorious peak, here are a few ways to get outside and get crafty at the same time. Think: homemade Christmas gifts from the backyard and the small pleasures that come from not spending too much money (good to think about at a time like this when the economy has turned on us).

For starts: is there any more lovely autumn activity than apple picking? I just went recently and I have to say, it's great. You feel like you're getting back to nature in a way that won't mess your manicure and is totally rewarding! And,  afterward, the possibilities are endless: homemade apple pie, apple tart, applesauce, you could even make your apple cider if you tried. Apparently artisanal apple cider-ing is making a comeback. If you're in New York City, get yourself down to the Union Square Greenmarket for a fresh jug of the stuff. Nothing complements autumn's bounty quite like it.

Next: Now,  Halloween isn't too far away but before you just chuck your Jack-o-lantern on Nov. 1st, try roasting the seeds (scoop out the seeds, lay them in a single row on a cookie sheet, sprinkle with a little sea salt and roast at about 325 degrees for about 10 minutes, or until you see them getting brown. Toss them and sprinkle more salt to taste. Crack open a cold bottle of Octoberfest brew and man, you're in business! Then, use the rest of the pumpkin for a practice run of pumpkin pie in time for Thanksgiving. Pie made from fresh pumpkin is different than maybe that canned Libby's standby, but so delicious and you haven't wasted the leftover parts.

And finally: who doesn't appreciate a gift from the heart? (and for those who might not, may I suggest new friends??!)  Give your favorite nature lover, or bird watcher, or yes, even the person who has everything this fun and easy token of your love that you may recall from your school days of yore! Scavenge in the backyard (yours or a neighbors if they don't mind, or public park etc.) for a pretty round and full pine cone. Spread a little peanut butter on each rung, for lack of a better description, of the pine cone, then sprinkle  still-in-their-hull sunflower seeds on top. Tie a festive string on the top and secure a round ring on the other side for hanging. Even city folk can appreciate a homemade way to beckon birds to the windowsill.

Then you can go howl at the big harvest moon and call it a day.