gifts for you

At this time of year we spend so much time preparing, worrying and stressing out about Xmas, I ask you to take a deep breath in, hold, and let it out. ahhhhh

Xmas or Yuletide as its old name was once known, is a time for reflection and celebration. Celebrating the coming together of loved ones, family and friends. In olden days past it was a gathering of the Yule log, that would keep you warm over the coldest darkest time of year.

A celebration of that yule log that had sacrificed itself to give us warmth. Imagine, in ancient times, the men go out to find a good yule log that will burn well, and give good heat. Some woods may burn well but dont give good heat. Others maybe smaller but give better heat, ash, oak. So the men size up the wood and decide upon the appropriate tree, they sing songs, and honour the tree before cutting down. Its sacrifice means the family is kept warm.

It is the time of longest nights and shortest days. A time to hibernate, and go within, a time for reflection and nurturing.

The Yule log, brings light into the home at the time of year. The darkest nights the yule log illuminates our life. It brings heat and warmth to body and soul. It brings out the story teller in us, the songster, the creative knitter, and the embroiderer, it brings imagination, hopes and dreams, it helps us to remember our love for each other and life.

May the blessings of Yule be with you, may it illuminate your dreams, and ignite your love
Gillian xx