Hygge, She Wrote

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I must be honest with you, dear reader. I have only experienced a fraction of Murder, She Wrote. I first discovered Cabot Cove in the spring of 2022, and at the time of writing this, I have only finished 3 seasons of the 12. Now, I know it seems like I have just outed myself as a MSW poser. And I will be the first to admit that I still have a lot to learn from JB. However, when you do the math, I have watched 3,008 minutes of MSW. Sure, it's shy of Malcolm Gladwell's 10,000 hours — I get that. But I would argue it is still a fair amount of time in the grand scheme of things.

Now, why do I bring this up? While I may not yet meet the requirements for being an expert in all things Cabot Cove, I would like to present the argument that I am an expert in being cozy. I have certainly put in my hours when it comes to being comfortable and creating a relaxing environment. At the risk of sounding too chuegy, I unironically love all things hygge and am so excited for the day when I move to Scandinavia. And I believe that the optimal way to enjoy an episode of Murder, She Wrote is wrapped in the thickest blanket that money can buy. So today, I would like to put my knowledge to good use and give you all the following gift:

Creating the Perfect Watching Experience - A Definitive How-To Guide.

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1. Soft Clothes Only, Please

If there is a cardinal rule of hygge, I believe it to be that jeans have absolutely no place in the relaxation zone. Trade in your fashion statement for loose fitting loungewear, preferably paired with wool socks (According to experts in the field of Pantsdrunk, the Finnish art of self care through solitary drinking, no restoration session is complete without woolen socks). For an even cozier experience, I tend to grab loungewear with sentimental value, such as my My Favorite Murder branded sweatpants or a sweater my grandmother made. I find this adds an extra layer of security to your viewing experience.

2. Darkened Room with Lamp Lighting

I sincerely hope that I am not the first person to tell you that harsh light can ruin any occasion. Rather than a bright overhead bulb, opt instead for a soft, yellow light lamp. This lighting is easier on the eyes and more comforting to the soul.

3. Snacks Within Reach

This should be a no brainer. The worst thing that can happen when you are engrossed in a whodunnit is having to pause the show to grab something from the kitchen. You should instead prep your snacks before hand and have them nearby for whenever the spirit moves you. I tend to watch multiple episodes in one sitting, so I like to bring a variety and large number of snacks to accompany me on the couch. To cover all of my bases, I like to grab a chocolate snack, a cheese and cracker snack, and a fruit or berry (assuming I have been to the grocery store recently!). The snack journey is one you must go on yourself, however, and you will eventually find the perfect combination of finger foods that pair with your ride-alongs with JB.

4. A Warm Cup of Tea

My personal preference is a peppermint tea, but I have been known to bring a constant comment or an earl grey into the mix. And, on special occasions, I will sometimes upgrade my hot tea to a hot toddy. Even an Irish coffee could do in a pinch. But the temperature of the beverage is nonnegotiable.

5. Gray Skies, Preferably Raining

Now, I understand that this is out of your control. You cannot bend the weather to your will. But we are designing the *optimal* viewing experience, and that will always include the soft patter of rain on window panes. If it is bright and sunny outside, I would recommend waiting until the sun has set to turn on an episode. Of course, there is never a wrong time to partake in Murder, She Wrote, but it is this blogger's opinion that JB pairs best with exterior darkness.

6. Phone Set to Do Not Disturb.

I find that I am never fully relaxed when my phone is in my hand. Being constantly available is anxiety inducing, and that is not the goal for your viewing session. When you are transporting yourself to Cabot Cove, do yourself a favor and turn your phone notifications off. If you're feeling brave, leave your phone in another room. While you are with Jessica Fletcher, you have permission to leave the rest of the world behind for 47 minutes.

7. A Pet to Share the Couch With - If Available

Need I say more? A furry friend is always a bonus, and here at Musings, She Wrote, we full heartedly endorse sharing your love of 80s procedurals with your pet!

8. Optional: A Craft at the Ready

As you may have seen on this very blog, I like to embroider while I am watching Murder, She Wrote. This adds an extra splash of cozy to the experience for me, and I get the added bonus of having a piece of art at the end of an episode. But it does not have to be embroidery; you could sketch, color, knit, crochet, scrapbook, what have you. The only rule is that it has to be something you can create without too much brain power. If your craft is going to cause you stress, it is unwelcome in the relaxation zone. I also say this is optional because you may prefer to just sit back and watch the episode, and that is an equally valid viewing experience. There are certainly days when I opt not to craft. Choose your own adventure. It is what Jessica would want.

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Now, my pupils, you have all of the tools you need to recreate the serenity of coastal Maine, although I hope you are able to avoid the murderous aspects of Cabot Cove. May your watching sessions be long, and may the world be just a little bit brighter after each trip to your personal relaxation zone.