Good to Know

Soothing Sounds

Unwind with the sound of singing bowls, a form of sound therapy originating thousands of years ago in Tibet, thought to promote deep relaxation and healing. Discover the effects yourself at two events hosted by Carol Metzker of Sound and Wellness: “Rediscover Your Glow,” December 13 at 6:30 p.m. at JusticeRain in West Chester, and “Find Peace in the Chaos of the Holidays,” December 16 at 10 a.m. at the newly opened Calabrese Performing and Creative Arts Center in Kennett Square. Facebook.com/SoundAndWellness.

Scottish Story

This holiday season, gift an animal-loving kiddo The Story of Neeps and Tattie (Maine Authors Publishing), a new book from Valley Forge resident Amy Johnson and sister-in-law Diane Madden. It’s based on the true story of Annie, a 10-year-old in Loch Ness, Scotland who adopted two young tortoises. Now 62, Annie still cares for the tortoises — which can live over 100 years! A portion of the book’s proceeds benefit tortoise rescue groups. NeepsAndTattie.com.

Wintry Webs

Here’s a new Christmas tree decorating tradition: Ukrainians add an unusual adornment — spiderwebs. Legend says a poor widow and her children found a pinecone had taken root outside their home. They tended the sapling until it grew into a beautiful Christmas tree, but they couldn’t afford to decorate it. On Christmas morning, they awoke to find a spider had spun intricate webs on the tree, which shone silver and gold in the sun. Ukraine.com.

Portraits with Plants

Need a gift for a photographer in your life, or want to polish your own skills? Longwood Gardens is hosting an Introduction to Portrait Photography course. Start with an online orientation on February 22, then head to the gardens on the 24th for a photoshoot with your classmates — all cameras welcome, including smartphones! Finally, wrap up with an online critique on February 29. $116–$129. 1001 Longwood Rd., Kennett Square. LongwoodGardens.org.

Get Inspired

Let your creative juices flow at Randall Graham Studio, new in West Chester, above Pine + Quill. In addition to showcasing Graham’s paintings, the studio offers adult art classes taught by Graham. Open to all skill levels, classes are designed around intensive, personalized training, with just eight students per class. The 12-week winter session starts the week of November 27, with in-person and online options available. 25 N. Walnut St., West Chester. RandallGraham.com.