What's up with Hygge?

So I'm in the process of reading this little book.  Did I tell you I'm back from France? Well, yes I am, and today, the difference in temps between our little town in France and where I live is a whopping 18 degrees... This gap will only widen in the days to come so I'm getting ready for it!

Hygge (pronounced hooga)

...is about an atmosphere and an experience, rather than about things. It is about being with the people we love.  A feeling of home. A feeling that we are safe, that we are shielded from the world and allow ourselves to let our guard down.  You may be having an endless conversation about the small or big things in life - or just be comfortable i each other's company - or just be by yourself enjoying a cup of tea.

Originally written in Danish, the translation is not the greatest and the author does seem to go for repetition but it has spurred me onto the mission of spending a happier, more contented winter. The hygge manifesto speaks to my soul directly and I want to make it my own. 

 

I'm ready for  # 4, 6 and 8 - I love the idea that, in the case of a gathering, tasks, as well as airtime, are shared.  Let all the people have a turn to speak - and no drama allowed! Now we're talking hygge.  The idea is to FEEL GOOD!

So in the weeks to come and, hopefully, throughout the winter, I will be adding to my list of hygge possibilities.

 This past week:

1. A neat site I found where our city's best coffee shops are listed.

2. Soup, soup and more soup including Italian Wedding (made for our arrival by M.), Barefoot Contessa's Winter Minestrone and Thai Curried Butternut Squash. Comfort in a bowl, mmm, mmm.

3. I've picked up my knitting needles again...

4. All caught up with GOT and Designated Survivor...

Any other hygge ideas out there? Please share!