It’s cozy season! Time for flannel sheets, fuzzy socks, spiced tea, and extra sleep. As cold weather approaches so does the art of finding comfort, warmth, and conviviality. “Hygge” is a term meaning “to comfort,” and is the practice of cozy-making. It is the perfect time to cultivate Hygge in the practice of handiwork, craft, and creativity. 

To support this season we are thrilled to introduce HYGGE! A Cozy Handiwork Series at the Merry Barn. Each month we’ll be offering a Hygge, a cozy time to support creativity and community all winter long. Led by mother-daughter duo, Kathy and Kelsy Hartley, these two artists are joining forces to be your Hygge guides. Each month they will introduce a new theme and explore a new handiwork craft, from mandala and wreath making, to artful letter writing, quilting, and needlework.

We’ll connect to the slower rhythms of self as we create, and to new friends and neighbors around us. These events may include nature gathering walks, creative embodiment exercises, shared stories, and conversational prompts. They’ll all include a warm beverage, light snacks, and a wonderful community.

October Hygge- Mandala Making: Sunday, Oct. 30 from 9 a.m. to noon. Sliding scale - $35-$45. In this event we’ll explore the change of seasons, and take stock of our own resources. We’ll begin by taking a walk at Dodge Point, feeling into our bodies in nature, while collecting things that call to us. Then we’ll explore an embodiment exercise, and with journal or thought prompts on offer, we’ll each begin making a nature mandala. While our minds focus on our connection to nature, the season, and our own systems, we’ll busy our hands and allow our creativity to come through. 

November Hygge- Becorns: Sunday, Nov. 20, 9 a.m.-noon. Same sliding scale. “Becorns” are the adorable whimsical invention of David Bird, and are woodland elf-like creatures crafted from acorns, pine cones, sticks, and other natural materials. These tiny creatures could jump right out of a fairy tale, and as you create them they may even inspire their own story. A perfect way to connect to play, nature, and imagination, Becorns will bring light and laughter wherever they go. In this event we’ll bring some of our own special nature gatherings, such as acorns, seed pods, and twigs, and Kathy and Kelsy will lead you through some unique ideas to create your very own Becorn. From there, creativity will be your guide!