Canadian Reader got me started down this trail when she said she read a book about making the winter a little less dreary. Seems the Danes are masters at this (and there are now a lot of books out on this subject). It's called hygge (pronounced hoo-ga) and is a feeling of being warm and safe. The Book of Hygge: the Danish Art of Contentment, Comfort, and Connection, by Louisa Thomsen Brits was my first book on hygge and was most interesting! Part living a simple life, part less is more, part family and friends are important, it's a nice introduction to making simple and easy changes in your life.

Just why are the Danes such a cheerful people? There are scores of studies as to how dark, damp, cloudy weather can lead to depression and yet, in a country of many such days they repeatedly score high on surveys of life satisfaction. Happy As a Dane:10 Secrets of the Happiest People in the World, by Malene Rydahl just might answer that question.

Move on to The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living, by Meik Wiking. A shorter, quicker read this time, but full of wonderful ideas and recipes and suggestions on how to achieve hygge in your own life. Loved the ideas for cozy spaces, warm sweaters and wool socks.

Reading Hermit With Dog