If something happens to you tomorrow, would your loved ones be able to easily find and manage all your assets, finances and wishes? This class will explore options and include checklists to physically and digitally organize, preserve and share your household accounts; passwords; care of kids and pets; family history, photos and heirlooms; as well as health care directives and end-of-life plans. This hands-on class is essential for anyone of any age and will save your next-of-kin time and money. Leave fond memories instead of a mess. A materials list will be provided with registration. $29 includes helpful handouts. Thank you for registering and paying at least one week ahead at lorissofiagregory.offeringtree.com. Inquire about last-minute registration.

Loris Sofia Gregory is a clutter coach, community educator, historian, researcher, writer and archivist committed to personal, community and planetary health. Loris worked for the Minnesota Historical Society for 18 years, cataloging, organizing and preserving household objects as well as developing interactive exhibits, multimedia programs and interpretive nature trails at the Minnesota History Center in St. Paul and Minnesota Historic Sites. Loris continues to research and create illustrated family, house and business histories for clients as well serves as a consulting archivist for family and organizational collections.

Step into a world where art meets literature, where imagination intertwines with history, and where creativity finds its canvas within the pages of vintage books. Join us for an enchanting and unique artistic journey in our "Pages of Creativity" art class, where past and present converge and old books become the inspiration and foundation for your artistic expression. We’ll discover how books can become a canvas for storytelling and self-expression.

In this mini-retreat, you'll explore the artistic possibilities of repurposing books into stunning art journals. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner, this class offers a welcoming nurturing environment for all skill levels. Dive into a realm of artistic possibilities as you experiment with mixed media techniques to breathe new life into old books in a supportive collaborative environment. Be inspired by others, share your progress, and foster a sense of artistic camaraderie.

Materials List:

• A hardcover book that can lie open easily.
• Any personal art supplies you may want to experiment with! Paint brushes, paints, paper items for collages, ephemera, stickers, paint or gel pens, Exacto knives, embroidery floss, photos, pastels, etc. We will have an assortment of materials for you to use at the studio as well.
• Neutral PH adhesive/glue and a glue stick.

Thank you for registering and paying at least one week ahead. Inquire about last-minute registrations.

https://events.humanitix.com/old-books-as-art-journals-a-mini-retreat-to-play-and-create

Dallas (she/they) is a yoga instructor, interfaith chaplain, teaching artist, and social justice organizer. She is especially interested in the healing and spiritual aspects of creating, especially in community. They are devoted to creating inclusive and radically welcoming spaces for self-exploration and expression, believing this to be an important spiritual practice and practical form of resistance to stigmatization and oppression. Explore more at Dallas Rising. Questions? Contact Dallas on her website or at [email protected].

“By making us stop for a moment, poetry gives us an opportunity to think about ourselves as human beings on this planet and what we mean to each other.” — Rita Dove

You are invited to dip into a safe creative circle in which you'll experience the impact of the poem-making process as a roadmap to enhance and foster insights and wellness. The poems will be accessible, with no need to worry about analyzing anything! Poetry and poem-making are compelling and effective tools in the journey toward wholeness. They are a language below the surface to view the world through a broader lens. Poetic Medicine is based on 20 years of groundbreaking work, from The Institute for Poetic Medicine and Poetry as a Tool for Wellness, integrating poetry and poem-making into mental health and wellness programs.

Our sessions will include reflections on quotes, poems, writing prompts, and time to write and share what is speaking to you, if you wish to share. No prior experience with poetry or writing is necessary. Bring your curiosity and allow your unique voice to expand in this interactive respectful circle of learners. You are welcome to come to one session or join us for a series! $35 per session or $90 for 3 sessions. Email Lisa at [email protected]. Inquire about last-minute registrations.

Lisa Mer (she/her) is a certified spiritual guide, trained facilitator for SoulCollage® and Poetic Medicine's Poetry as a Tool for Wellness. Lisa is also a certified Veriditas labyrinth facilitator as well as offering Sand & Symbol, a spiritual sand tray practice. She is steeped in Parker Palmer's Courage and Renewal work and served in public education for over 30 years. She believes that symbols, images, and metaphors are powerful ways to give voice to our inner wisdom. Explore more at Home | Soul Symbol Minneapolis.

Inspire and unleash your creativity while collaging with a diversity of colorful fabrics, buttons, bows, textured papers, printed images, and embellishments. Feel free to bring favorite materials or explore a range of studio supplies to create on canvas or paper. Come and free your playful self in a judgement-free community! $40/session with supplies included. Cash or check payment due at the class meeting. Thank you for registering online at least one week ahead and inquire about last-minute registrations 24 hours ahead.

Suzanne Herder is a Sister of St. Joseph and has been a community teacher for many years. She plays with watercolor, acrylics, collage and Zentangle art. She enjoys encouraging and inspiring people to playfully explore materials and create as a beginner or seasoned artist. Suzanne believes everyone is creative throughout their lives. Questions? Contact Suzanne at [email protected].

Tired of living with too much stuff? Need to downsize your or your parents’ home? This class will guide you in clarifying priorities in sifting through generations of clutter and memories. Consider what may be overstimulating along with the benefits of familiar and sentimental objects that can provide comfort in a healthy safe home. Discover the power of creating a “fond memories” photo album while reminiscing and honoring personal accomplishments and precious family history. $29 includes informative handouts and community resources to “right size” while donating, upcycling and recycling. Thank you for registering at least one week ahead at lorissofiagregory.offeringtree.com. Inquire about last-minute registration.

As a health coach and community educator for the past 15 years, Loris delights in inspiring, coaching and applauding clients and class participants towards lighter, healthier, toxin-free homes and lives. Loris worked for the Minnesota Historical Society for 18 years, cataloging, organizing and preserving household objects as well as developing interactive exhibits, multimedia programs and interpretive nature trails. Loris continues to research and create illustrated family, house and business histories for clients. Loris collaborated with Cathy Matrejek, owner of Changing Lifestyle Solutions of Wayzata, for five years to support customers in packing, unpacking and rightsizing for healthy homes and lighter lives.