Saturday 2 February 2013

Happy Imbolc

Today is Imbolc or Candlemas.
It's a festival celebrating the seasonal change from Winter to Spring and we note the return of the sun and the first sprouting of leaves; the start of the agricultural year is marked by Pagans.
The Celtic Goddess Brigid is honoured. She is the Goddess of Poetry, Healing, Midwifery and Creativity.

Traditionally the decorations of boughs are swept out of the house which were placed there around Christmas, making way for new life.
Candles are lit around the house and the fire symbolises our own illumination and inspiration as well as light and warmth from the sun.

Spiced dishes are eaten to warm the body and winter herbs such as rosemary and sage are used to the full.

I am taking some snowdrops to the celebration tonight and some good earthy wine.
Some winter stitching in cosy flannels has been happening here and a quilt is nearly born.
Happy Imbolc / St. Bigid's Day / Candlemas to all who find themselves here. Raise a glass to a new year of growth in all senses.

8 comments:

  1. Happy beginning to the new season Clare.
    In my garden the first signs are visible too after the snow melted away last weekend, lots of lovely yellow Eranthis !

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  2. Beautiful photos Clare. May this be a season of renewal and healing for you.

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  3. Imbolc Blessings to you and loving the little houses on the edge of your quilt.x

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  4. Blessings to you Clare, the quilt looks lovely.

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  5. I raise my glass with you Clare! The days are discernibly longer here and I am no longer walking with a flashlight after work. blessings, sus

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  6. Thank you for introducing me to such a beautiful flower. Peace, Mary Helen Fernandez Stewart

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  7. Thank you for the description of this ancient celebration ... I swear I learn something new every day !

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