Events & Programs
We are happy to host you for a sustainability tour/visit. School groups, church groups, garden clubs, individuals, etc. are all welcome. Host your staff meeting here and include a pizza lunch or snack of homemade bread & jam. OR just come to hang out, walk the trails and BE. Please call/email to set a time. The labyrinth & trails are self-guided, just call / email to let us know you're coming.
TO SIGN UP: Some classes/activities are limited. PLEASE sign up by contacting us via email, phone (need: your name, phone, email & class/activity), or thru the website (be SURE to indicate class you're signing up for). Schedule subject to change, confirm before coming. Any fees may be paid via cash or check when you come to the class. (we're keeping it simple with no corporate fees on payments and such).
ABOUT FEES: BMP is open to all regardless of one's ability to pay. The last three years we practiced an economy of “reciprocity”, giving in accordance to what you receive (i.e., labor, money, goods needed, etc.), for a balance. While this has been great to offer, the reality is costs are not being covered. As a result, classes/activities will mostly be on a "sliding fee scale" of $0 - $50. YOU still determine the rate with some basic guidelines - most are offered at suggested $15-20 range. (some classes do have a "supplies" fee which are noted in addition to class fee.)
BMP's biggest expenses relate to insurance and property tax. Currently no staff are paid, and instructors receive a stipend, which many gift back to BMP, for which we are grateful.
StoryWalk Along Forrest Ridge Trail
Self-Guided & Open most days
The StoryWalk is along the Forrest Ridge Trailfor adventurers to join reading, Sheep Take a Hike by Nancy Shaw. The story stations also have fun movements to do along with the sheep as they adventure through the woods. NEXT UP: Crinkleroot's Guilde to Walking in Wild Places by Jim Arnosky.
Labyrinth & Trails
The Labyrinth in the woods and trails around the grounds are available for walking / meditating. Trails are no longer than one mile. We are also near trails into the Foothills State Forest. Be sure to dress properly, trails may be wet and/or have fallen brush/trees across paths in the Foothills.
* Forrest Ridge Trail (StoryWalk trail)
* Meadow Creek Trail * Twin Creek Trail
* Balsam Pond Trail * Labyrinth
Daycare groups, home-school groups, families, school groups, library groups and all ages are welcome to participate. Want a special activity experience? Let us know and we can set that up as a teacher-guided experience.
Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Vermont Bicycle & Pedestrian Coalition and the Kellogg Hubbard Library.
Feel free to come snowshoe the trails in the winter months.
WINTER SOLSTICE
Saturday, December 21
6-7pm around the campfire
dress for the weather (last year it was in the 30s and no snow! Ya never know!)
Winter Solstice is a time to slow down and reflect upon the past year. We take this time to release the old, celebrate with gratitude what was, and welcome in the new.
Join us. We'll release the Prayer Flags that have been hanging in the Labyrinth in the Woods by burning them in the campfire. You can release the past year symbolicly by burning something - a journal maybe, or note to yourself, or a "to do" list. It's also a time to think about the coming year and jot down intentions or goals you hope to fulfill. Release those in the campfire too as you reflect on what's coming.
We'll warm up inside after the "ritual", share goodies, and you're invited to draw an "Angel Card" for the year.
This past year Balsam Moon Preserve has "hosted" the Angel of Understanding - "The ability to include a deeper comprehension of life in your interactions rather than simply transferring your knowledge from one experience to another. Act with sincerity and empathy." This message has given much to reflect upon over the past year and we're grateful.
It's all in good fun as we pause to gather in community, sharing the year's shortest day of the year on this Winter's Eve, and listening for what's yet to come.
WINTER SOLSTICE
Saturday, December 21
6-7pm around the campfire
dress for the weather (last year it was in the 30s and no snow! Ya never know!)
Winter Solstice is a time to slow down and reflect upon the past year. We take this time to release the old, celebrate with gratitude what was, and welcome in the new.
Join us. We'll release the Prayer Flags that have been hanging in the Labyrinth in the Woods by burning them in the campfire. You can release the past year symbolicly by burning something - a journal maybe, or note to yourself, or a "to do" list. It's also a time to think about the coming year and jot down intentions or goals you hope to fulfill. Release those in the campfire too as you reflect on what's coming.
We'll warm up inside after the "ritual", share goodies, and you're invited to draw an "Angel Card" for the year.
This past year Balsam Moon Preserve has "hosted" the Angel of Understanding - "The ability to include a deeper comprehension of life in your interactions rather than simply transferring your knowledge from one experience to another. Act with sincerity and empathy." This message has given much to reflect upon over the past year and we're grateful.
It's all in good fun as we pause to gather in community, sharing the year's shortest day of the year on this Winter's Eve, and listening for what's yet to come.
WINTER SOLSTICE
Saturday, December 21
6-7pm around the campfire
dress for the weather (last year it was in the 30s and no snow! Ya never know!)
Winter Solstice is a time to slow down and reflect upon the past year. We take this time to release the old, celebrate with gratitude what was, and welcome in the new.
Join us. We'll release the Prayer Flags that have been hanging in the Labyrinth in the Woods by burning them in the campfire. You can release the past year symbolicly by burning something - a journal maybe, or note to yourself, or a "to do" list. It's also a time to think about the coming year and jot down intentions or goals you hope to fulfill. Release those in the campfire too as you reflect on what's coming.
We'll warm up inside after the "ritual", share goodies, and you're invited to draw an "Angel Card" for the year.
This past year Balsam Moon Preserve has "hosted" the Angel of Understanding - "The ability to include a deeper comprehension of life in your interactions rather than simply transferring your knowledge from one experience to another. Act with sincerity and empathy." This message has given much to reflect upon over the past year and we're grateful.
It's all in good fun as we pause to gather in community, sharing the year's shortest day of the year on this Winter's Eve, and listening for what's yet to come.
WINTER SOLSTICE
Saturday, December 21
6-7pm around the campfire
dress for the weather (last year it was in the 30s and no snow! Ya never know!)
Winter Solstice is a time to slow down and reflect upon the past year. We take this time to release the old, celebrate with gratitude what was, and welcome in the new.
Join us. We'll release the Prayer Flags that have been hanging in the Labyrinth in the Woods by burning them in the campfire. You can release the past year symbolicly by burning something - a journal maybe, or note to yourself, or a "to do" list. It's also a time to think about the coming year and jot down intentions or goals you hope to fulfill. Release those in the campfire too as you reflect on what's coming.
We'll warm up inside after the "ritual", share goodies, and you're invited to draw an "Angel Card" for the year.
This past year Balsam Moon Preserve has "hosted" the Angel of Understanding - "The ability to include a deeper comprehension of life in your interactions rather than simply transferring your knowledge from one experience to another. Act with sincerity and empathy." This message has given much to reflect upon over the past year and we're grateful.
It's all in good fun as we pause to gather in community, sharing the year's shortest day of the year on this Winter's Eve, and listening for what's yet to come.
WINTER SOLSTICE
Saturday, December 21
6-7pm around the campfire
dress for the weather (last year it was in the 30s and no snow! Ya never know!)
Winter Solstice is a time to slow down and reflect upon the past year. We take this time to release the old, celebrate with gratitude what was, and welcome in the new.
Join us. We'll release the Prayer Flags that have been hanging in the Labyrinth in the Woods by burning them in the campfire. You can release the past year symbolicly by burning something - a journal maybe, or note to yourself, or a "to do" list. It's also a time to think about the coming year and jot down intentions or goals you hope to fulfill. Release those in the campfire too as you reflect on what's coming.
We'll warm up inside after the "ritual", share goodies, and you're invited to draw an "Angel Card" for the year.
This past year Balsam Moon Preserve has "hosted" the Angel of Understanding - "The ability to include a deeper comprehension of life in your interactions rather than simply transferring your knowledge from one experience to another. Act with sincerity and empathy." This message has given much to reflect upon over the past year and we're grateful.
It's all in good fun as we pause to gather in community, sharing the year's shortest day of the year on this Winter's Eve, and listening for what's yet to come.
POTLUCK & PONDERINGS
Fridays - Jan. 10, Feb. 7, Mar. 7
5:30-7:30pm
These monthly gatherings through the winter months are a way to connect with good food and great friends. We'll share potluck (bring a dish to share) and then gather round the fireplace and contemplate a question drawn from a jar of which YOU are welcome to contribute one. Questions may be: "What are you pondering these days?" "What are the benefits and drawbacks of the global market?" "When, if ever, did you first think about sustainability? and What does it mean to you today?"
This is a time to listen to each other in circle. We'll take time to reflect on our response, taking notes as we wish, and then go round the circle allowing each person 2 minutes to respond/share OR pass, pausing between each person's response. On the 2nd round, you can share further or ask another person for more info or comment on what was said limiting your time to 2 minutes. 3rd round will be more open.
It's great fun to listen and reflect on something other than the weather, and learn from each other in the process as stories are shared.
Let us know you're coming by calling (218-587-3808) or emailing (BalsamMoon3148@gmail.com). We look forward to being in community with you!
TRANSFORMATION GAME
Jan. 17 & 18, Fri & Sat
10am-4pm each day (lunch included)
Facilitated by Barb Mann
Maximum of 4 participants/players (sign up for yourself, or as a group of 2-4)
Also Offered: March 21 & 21; and by special arrangements.
Examples of personal game focus:
* What steps can I take in my relationship(s) sot that I feel greater satisfaction and happiness?
* I desire to release those personality blocks that keep me from being joyful, creative and harmonious.
* I intend to gain a greater understanding and awareness, and move through my pattern of wanting to "fix" others.
* I intend to know and clear the obstacles that keep me from full and creative service to the planet.
The Transformation Game is a joyful way of understanding and transforming the way you play your life. It's about looking at your life and the kinds of experiences you create, seeing how you react to them, and how you can use these insights for your own growth. Through the Game you can become more aware of your personal strengths and learn important lessons that can deepen your understanding of how you operate on the Physical, Emotional, Mental, and Spiritual levels. By providing new perspectives on current life issues, the Game helps you clarify old beliefs and attitudes and transform reaction patterns. It triggers your creativity and lets you realize your full power and potential.
You play with a particular focus or intention (see examples at left) and this guides your entire experience.
This is not a competitive game. It is not therapy or counseling (those of you with those skills, be mindful in playing). The other players can be helpful in bringing different perspectives to light as you decipher information you receive in playing the game per your focus/intention, as you also serve in that capacity for the other players. It IS meant to be FUN! In the midst of that fun, there may be tears and resistance along with the laughter. It's not about judgment, or right/wrong, good/bad. It is an opportunity to reflect and learn about yourself as you live your life/dream.
BROOM MAKING 101
Feb. 8, Saturday
1-5pm at Balsam Moon Preserve
Limited to 6 participants
Instructor: Mark Smith of Nisswa
Join this session to learn the old craft of making a small whisk broom. This hands-on session will have you working with traditional broomcorn (not really corn, it's sorghum) and plaiting handles. You'll end up with a working hand broom great to have for those quick clean ups.
The brooms are made of harvested or downed branches or saplings and storm-felled split logs (pine, birch, oak and ash). The processed broomcorn used is a traditional material identical to that produced in bulk in the Midwest USA in the late 19th century as raw material for the thriving cottage industry of broom making long before anyone had a Hoover or a Dyson for routine household cleaning. Colored nylon twine is used in tying the broomcorn and attaching it to the handle or just cinching the processed broomcorn when making smaller whisks or hearth brooms. Occasionally the broomcorn is hand dyed to add more vivid color than the natural tones of the raw wood and fiber.
Tools include broom tying footbrake, basketry scissors, ripcords, knives, and a poly-pipe cutter. Materials include: multiple colors of nylon twine, leather strips for hanging loop for each piece, broomcorn stalks for plaiting the handles and sufficient broom corn for everyone to make at least 1 whisk broom.
Mark is a newcomer to the small cadre of broom makers in the US. He was introduced to the craft of broom tying at the North House Folk School in Grand Marais where he acquired the basic knowledge for assembling utilitarian whisk brooms, novelty brooms, hearth brooms and traditional kitchen sweepers. He also had an opportunity to participate in a class with Master broomsquire Marlow Gates at the John C Campbell Folk School in North Carolina. Mark then put many years of hobby woodworking and a bit of an artistic eye to creating unique handles and sticks upon which to base the broom design. The broom makers craft is an old one which is not too common these days, but the joy or assembling a novel creation after sitting down with some string, a stick and a bit of broomcorn is enough to keep anyone going through even the coldest Minnesota winters. It’s just more fun to sweep up a mess or clean up a corner if the tools you are using have character and charm. All of Mark’s creations qualify as “suitable for framing” and would be just as comfortable hanging on a wall for display as hard at work chasing dust and debris.
FEE: $35 for Supplies + $15 for instruction
(pay by cash or check when you come to class)
MORE TO COME FOR 2025
Feb 15, Sat. 8am - 5pm Back to Basics annual sustainable living event at Pine River-Backus Schools in Pine River. Balsam Moon will be set up as a vendor AND Doug will be teaching Chicken Coop Alternative Building (passive solar & earthship style) 2:35-3:35pm. Sign up for the whole day or JUST the parts you're interested in. The Vendor section is open at no charge all day. Back to Basics | Happy Dancing Turtle
Mar 15, Sat 1-5pm Wooden Spoon Carving 101 w/ Mike Austad of Pine River. LIMITED TO 6. Cost for supplies (approx. $80 - 2 basic carving knives) & class FEE $20
Apr 22, Tuesday, 6-7:30pm EARTH DAY Gardening 101 w/ Barb Mann.
May 3, Sat. 9am-noon - Wattle Fence Creation w/ Barb Mann
May 15, Thurs, 1-5pm, Morel Mushroom Foraging w/ Melissa Olson,
followed by mushroom pizza from the outdoor oven. $20
June 13, July 11, Aug 8 Fridays, 5-7pm - Pizza Nights
June 28, Sat, 1-4pm, Mushroom Foraging w/ Tanya Villano FEE: $15
July 19, Sat. 1-5pm, Foraging Wild Edibles & Meal w/ Stacey Quade of Duluth, FEE: $20
July 23, Wed., 4-6pm Wild Mushroom Delights - prepping & using wild mushrooms, w/ Tanya Villano FEE: $20
Aug. 23, Sat, 1-5pm Mushroom Foraging w/ Mushroom Pizza w/ Tanya Villano. FEE: $20
Sept. 6, Sat. 2-7pm, Harvest Celebration & Meal
Sept 21, Sun 10-11am International Day of Peace on the Labyrinth
Sept 27, Sat 10-noon Seed Saving Part 1 - how to basics w/ Barbara Kaufman
1-3pm Seed Saving Part 2 - hands-on
(if here for both parts, bring a sack lunch)
Oct. 4, Sat, 10am-2pm - National Solar Tour
