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Big Raven Farm

Why Cooking Retreats Are the Ultimate Getaway for Food Lovers

If you live for the joy of cooking, the thrill of discovering new flavors, and the deep satisfaction of sharing a delicious meal, then a cooking retreat is the dream getaway you never knew you needed. Forget ordinary vacations—this is an immersive, hands-on experience where food isn't just part of the trip; it's the star of the show. And there's no better place to embark on this culinary adventure than Big Raven Farm’s Cooking Retreat with Chef Darin Warling, April 3–6, 2025. A Getaway That Nourishes Your Soul and Your Taste Buds Unlike traditional vacations, where meals are a passive...

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Creative Techniques to Give Our Minds A Break with Natalie Lu - Joleen's Happy Time Craftcast 42

Want a creative escape? In my latest Happy Time Craftcast episode, I chat with my amazing friend Natalie Lu about how creative journaling helps us de-stress and recharge. Spoiler alert: Anything in a book counts—no rules, just fun! Plus, we dish on our Big Raven Farm Retreat (April 10-13), and trust me, you don’t want to miss it.

Grab your journal and tune in—let’s get messy and feel better together! 💖

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Burnout Recovery for Caregivers: A Restorative Art Retreat for Caregivers

Caring for others is more than a job—it’s a calling. Whether you're a nurse, PCA, technician, aide, therapist, doctor, or family caregiver, your days are spent giving, helping, and supporting those in need. But who takes care of you? If you’ve been feeling drained, overwhelmed, or in need of time to rest, reflect, and restore, the Creative Expression for Resilience Art Retreat at Big Raven Farm, April 10-13, 2025, is exactly what you need. This retreat, led by Natalie Lu and Joleen Emery, is designed for those who spend their lives caring for others. It’s a chance to step away from the...

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Glue, Grit, and Collage Magic with Emilee Stone - Joleen's Happy Time Craftcast 41

Some creative sessions just flow—you cut, glue, and piece together something magical without a second thought. That’s exactly the kind of energy Emilee Stone brings to this episode! She’s the genius behind Collage Soup, a self-taught artist who went from tech support to publishing 68+ collage books that artists everywhere are obsessed with. We dive into her creative journey, her wildly popular Blind Date with a Collage Box (which sold out in a day!), and why the right paper can totally change your art-making experience. Oh, and there’s a little confession about fussy cutting in the car—because, obviously.

This conversation is packed with inspiration, crafty wisdom, and so much joy. Grab your glue stick and tune in! 

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Hidden Gems in Minnesota: Why Big Raven Farm Is a Must-Visit for Retreat Seekers

  Some places are just different. They hold a magic you can’t quite explain—a feeling that wraps around you when you arrive, inviting you to slow down, breathe deeper, and feel truly cared for. Big Raven Farm is one of those places. Nestled in the breathtaking Driftless Region of Minnesota, our retreat center is a sanctuary for self-care, creativity, and connection. But unlike traditional getaway spots, we aren’t open for casual visits—the only way to experience Big Raven Farm is by joining one of our 30 retreats in 2025. Whether you come for yoga, art, cooking, crochet, or even tarot, you’ll...

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