Museum News (Jan. 5, 2026)

And just like that, we are starting another year. Time seems to pass so quickly, and one thing I’ve noticed is how difficult it is for most people to push pause—to take even a few moments to relax or simply enjoy themselves. To-do lists seem to reign supreme. I understand that things have to be done, but are we doing so much that “fun” has become just another chore?

I hear it often from folks who say they meant to get into the Museum to see an exhibit or that they would have really liked to take a class, but just couldn’t fit it into their schedule. I find myself doing the same thing. I want to do “fun” things, yet when the opportunity presents itself, I almost have to force myself to do them because there is always something else that needs to be done. Our to-do lists seem endless.

At the start of a new year, many people make very specific resolutions—and if that works for you, great! Others, I believe, need more of an umbrella approach. While watching Sunday Morning on CBS recently, I saw an interview with oncologist Dr. Ezekiel J. Emanuel, author of Eat Your Ice Cream: Six Simple Rules for a Long and Healthy Life. In an inadvertent way, he reinforced my thoughts about that umbrella approach.

I have not read the book, but the interview was enlightening. My takeaway from Dr. Emanuel’s message is that people who take time to push pause—by enjoying life’s simple pleasures and deliberately connecting socially with others—tend to live longer, healthier lives. He shared that even chatting briefly with a cashier or the person sitting next to you at a restaurant counts as social interaction. While being intentional about social connection is ideal, you can start today simply by being friendly to those you meet.

The Hansen Museum offers many opportunities to help you push pause in 2026. From fantastic exhibitions to fun and educational classes, camps, workshops, and other social events, there is something for everyone. Whether you’ve set specific resolutions for the year or simply want to increase your social interaction, I’m confident you’ll find something at the Museum to help you meet that goal.

In the coming weeks, members will receive a flyer in the mail highlighting our 2026 events. Take a look and mark your planner—be deliberate about creating time to step away from work and make room for fun. We look forward to seeing you in 2026! Stay up to date with Museum news and events by following the Hansen Museum on Facebook.

The Hansen Museum is located at 110 W. Main Street in Logan, Kansas. Hours are Monday–Friday, 9:00–12:00 and 1:00–4:00; Saturday, 9:00–12:00 and 1:00–5:00; and Sunday and holidays, 1:00–5:00. The Museum is fully handicap-accessible, and thanks to the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, admission is always free. For more information, call 785-689-4846. We hope to see you at the Museum soon.