The word yule develops from the geōl, with cousin forms in such other Germanic languages as Old Norse and Gothic. English speakers are most familiar with yule through associations dating to its original use. For example, the yule log, as in the lyric “See the blazing yule before us,” was originally a real tree limb or trunk burnt on the hearth, but now makes an appearance at Christmastime as a cake shaped like a log. https://www.dictionary.com/e/yuletide/
We bought a special bundle of birch wood to burn on the evening of the 21st in an outdoor bonfire. I'm so excited for this night. It's just another way for us to have some cozy winter vibes and celebrate in nature. The bundle of wood we bought is like a traditional yule log. It was for sale at our favorite Christmas tree farm. I think it's intended to be a centerpiece and it's been great for a prop for social media photos, but this Monday it's going into the fire and we'll set some intentions while it burns.
The custom of the Yule Log spread all over Europe and different kids of wood are used in different countries. In England, Oak is traditional; in Scotland, it is Birch; while in France, it's Cherry. Also, in France, the log is sprinkled with wine, before it is burnt, so that it smells nice when it is lit.
I've also read that different wood has different meanings:
The birch has long been considered a symbol of renewal and purification. The early Celts used bundles of birch twigs as besoms - brooms - to drive out the spirits of the old year. Gardeners may still use birch besoms to sweep their gardens clean. The birch is also seen as a symbol of love and fertility, and birch sticks were used to herd cattle in the Scottish Highlands, to promote fertility and healthy calves. - https://www.logsdirect.co.uk/blog/burning-birch-firewood/
I also plan to decorate our back courtyard with luminaries. Have you made those before? As far as I recall, I think you basically put some sand and a candle inside paper bags and light them at night. Maybe I should grab some sand from our local beach? I have a ton of tea lights candles that need to get used up anyhow so I figure why not? I can't wait to see the twinkling lights of the little fires all over our yard, something we definitely couldn't enjoy in the drought prone state of California!
Are you trying any new traditions this holiday? Let me know what they are!
Also, I wanted to speak briefly about the covid vaccine. I am ecstatic that we may be getting our first dose next week as we are funeral/mortuary workers. I have read a lot of commentary about it online. Mostly positive from well educated people. When it comes to matters of health, I turn to science and those who spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on their education in the healthcare field. That just makes the most sense to me. No, I'm not scared or nervous. I'm more nervous about getting injured in a car accident or when my next panic attack will be (sadly, my last panic attack was last night and each time it happens lately, I feel like it's getting harder to breathe.) Though I know the panic attacks are caused by stress and anxiety, I can't imagine what it would be like to be gasping for air in the literal sense while in a hospital with covid. Are you getting the vaccine? Let me know! See you back here tomorrow!
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