The Holly King & Solstice Spirit

Welcome, light!

First, a favorite solstice story...

"I am the Holly King, Lord of the Waning Year. You may know me as the Green Man or as the Winter King. I rule from Midsummer to Midwinter, and my reign culminates in the festivities of Yuletide. As the wren dies to make way for the robin, soon I will bow before my brother the Oak King. You will not see me again until the Sun once more begins to wane. As I prepare to withdraw into the deep midwinter, I contemplate the glowing light of the reborn Sun in my cup — and in this holy grail, I see visions and dreams of the year to come..

Carry a sprig of holly with you as my token. It will protect you against fierce winter storms, and will bestow upon you the focus, direction and courage you need to succeed in your own spiritual quest.

Fill your homes with holly this season! Deck the halls! My evergreen leaves and bright red berries, seen against the barren oaks of winter, will remind you of the Life that sustains us during the bitterest time of the year."

Oh, the first day of winter! With rosy cheeks, W and I enjoyed a day outside with sticks and branches galore...

My little boy won't keep his mittens on! Argh!

In the evening, we gathered with friends to walk an advent spiral with our little ones..

Many thanks to my lovely friend, Lauren and her family!

We enjoyed a delicious dinner together and sang happy birthday to a very special little girl; a true winter fairy! A scrumptious vegan chocolate cake followed....

As the days before Christmas dwindle before my eyes, my excitement grows...
The merriment of the holiday season grows exponentially when little ones are about!
Are you done with your handmade gifts?

I may have a few late nights ahead of me:)