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The Yule Tree

The Celtic Druids venerated evergreen trees as manifestations of deity and as symbols of the universe. To the Celts, these trees were sacred because they did not die from year to year like deciduous trees. Therefore they represented the eternal aspect of the Goddess who also never dies. Their greenery was symbolic of the hope for the sun's return. The Druids decorated the evergreen trees at Yule with all the images of the things they wished the waxing year to bring. Fruits for a successful harvest, love charms for happiness, nuts for fertility, and coins for wealth adorned the trees. These were forerunners to many of the images on today's Christmas trees. Candles were the forerunners of today's electric tree lights.

In Scandinavia, Yule trees were brought inside to provide a warm and festive place for tree elementals who inhabited the woodland. This was also

a good way to coax the native faery folk to participate in Solstice rituals. Some believed the Saxons were the first to place candles in the tree.

Gradually sacred tree imagery was absorbed and minimalized by the Christian church--but it was never able to destroy trees' resonance within our collective unconscious completely. We realize when we plant a tree we are encouraging the Earth to breathe. And when we decorate our evergreen trees at Yule, we are making a symbol of our dream world with the objects we hang upon it. Perhaps a chain or garland, reflecting the linking of all together on Earth. Lights--for the light of human consciousness, animal figures who serve as our totems, fruits and colors that nourish and give beauty to our world, gold and silver for prosperity, treats and nuts that blend sweet and bitter--just as in real life. The trees we decorate now with symbols of our perfect worlds actually animate what we esteem and what we hope for in the coming year; as from this night, the light returns, reborn. Decorating the Tree It's best to use a live tree, but if you can't, you can perform an outdoor ritual thanking a tree, making sure to leave it a gift when you're finished (either some herbs or food for the animals and birds). Start a seedling for a new tree to be planted at Beltane. If apartment rules or other conditions prevent you from using a live tree indoors, be sure to bring live evergreen garlands or wreaths into the house as decorations. * String popcorn and cranberries and hang them on the Yule tree or an outdoor tree for birds. * Decorate pine cones with glue and glitter as symbols of the faeries and place them in the Yule tree. * Glue the caps onto acorns and attach with a red string to hang on the Yule tree. * Hang little bells on the Yule tree to call the spirits and faeries.

* Hang robin and wren ornaments on the tree. The robin is the animal equivalent of the Oak King, the wren of the Holly King. Each Yule and Midsummer they play out the same battle as the two kings. * Hang 6-spoked snowflakes on the branches of the tree. The Witches Rune, or Hagalaz, has 6 spokes. * Hang sun, moon, star, Holly King, faery, or fruit decorations. * String electric lights on your tree to encourage the return of the Sun. Consecrate the Yule tree by sprinkling it with salted water, passing the smoke of incense (bayberry, pine, spruce, pine, spice, cedar, or cinnamon) through the branches, and walking around the tree with a lighted candle saying: By fire and water, air and earth, I consecrate this tree of rebirth.

Correspondences EVERGREENS

Symbolizing: Continuity of Life, Protection, Prosperity Types: Pine, Fir, Cedar, Juniper, other evergreens Forms: boughs, wreaths, garlands, trees Divinities: Green Goddesses & Gods; Hertha; Cybele, Attis, Dionysius (Pine); Woodland Spirits Traditions: Roman, Celtic, Teutonic, Christian

OAK

Symbolizing: New Solar Year; Waxing Sun; Endurance, Strength, Triumph, Protection, Good Luck Forms: Yule log, acorns, wood for sacred fires Divinities: Oak King; Oak Spirit; Sky Gods including Thor, Jupiter, Zeus Traditions: Teutonic, Celtic, Christian

SACRED TREES OF WINTER SOLSTICE from the Celtic Tree Calendar

Yew: Last Day of Solar Year; Death. Silver Fir: Winter Solstice Day; Birth. Birch: Month following Winter Solstice; Beginnings.

Written by Selena Fox

Table of Contents
I. History and origin of Yule II. Correspondences III. Origins of Santa Clause VI. Inside the Cauldron V. CGW Disclaimer IV.Member Articles IIV.Sister Sites Lady Hekate CGW

. Yule falls approximately on the Winter Solstice, the shortest day and longest night of the year. After Yule the period of daylight begins to wax, until it reaches the longest day on June 21, the Summer Solstice. For folks in Northern climes, the Winter Solstice was a most welcome day to anticipate at the dark end of the year, and although months of darkness lay ahead, folk could rest assured Sunnas might was on the increase and darkness was waning. Yule is actually a span of thirteen days, usually counted from the night before the solstice (19 or 20 December, as it varies from year to year ), to the thirteenth night, (usually January 6 called Twelfth Night later by Christians). Bede called Yule eve Mother Night", and it is thought this night was devoted to honouring the Idises (or Disir, female ancestral spirits) the family protectors. The Solstice itself, either 20, 21 or 22 December, is the most important of the days, when the dead and other beings of the dark fare most freely, Winter arrives, and humans are closest to the spirit worlds.

Jlfr (Yule-father) and Jlnir (Yule) are names of Odin. Some think Odin was the original Alf or gift-giving Elf ( Julesvenn in Norway, Jultomten in Sweden, and Jule-nissen in Denmark). Before Santa Claus was popularised in the Victorian era as a fat jolly Elf, he was seen as tall and lean, wearing a dark cloak, not a red and white tunic. Earlier legends describe Santa as riding a white horse, not driving a sleigh pulled by reindeer. This reminds us of Odins steed Sleipner. The elder Yule Elf was a bit stern also, and could be quite a terrifying figure, especially to rude or ill-willed folk. This forbidding Yule Father probably arose from ancient legends of the Odensjakt or Wild Host who during Yule tide ride the stormy Winter skies, led by Odin as Oskoreidi.

Sometimes people would be taken to join the Wild Host in tumultuous flight. In the Christian era folklore advised people to stay inside at night to avoid the furious Host, which was much feared. There are many accounts, especially from Germany, of wayfaring folks being picked up and transported from one place to the other by the throng of the dead, only to be left there lifeless.

Other legends tell of those who could lie as dead (presumably in a trance state) while their souls fared aloft with the Wild Host. However, it is quite possible that fearful reputation of the Wild Host was especially encouraged by Christians, who claimed the Wild Huntsman was their devil. From a Heathen perspective it is likely that originally the Wild Host was made up of ecstatic human devotees of the God Wodan. He is the God of ecstasy, but also of death, so the dead probably always made up part of the Wild Host, which rode with great clamor upon skeletal horses and accompanied by ghostly hounds.

In contrast to the solely horrific nature of the Hunt as seen by Christians, there is a great deal of evidence that Heathens believed fertility and blessings were brought by the Wild Host . Oski, Fulfiller of Desire, or Granter of Wishes, is an aspect of Odin that could well be associated with

the Yule Elf, for Oskoreidi, Leader of the Wild Host, was known to give gold or other boons to those who were courteous or clever. The greatest boon believed wrought by the Furious Host was that as they rode above the fields they ensured fertility and fruitful harvests.

An interesting related custom survived in Germany of leaving the last sheaf of grain cut in the field for the Huntsmans horse, eight-legged Sleipner, Odins magickal steed. This fertility aspect of the Wild Hunt could be connected in some way with the return of the dead to their earthly homes at Yule, for it was thought they brought blessings with them and bestowed them upon their kin. These evolved dead were considered to be Alfar (male Elves) or Disir (powerful female ancestral spirits), a higher soul state some benevolent humans were believed to achieve upon death. These holy Ancestors became guardian spirits of their kins land, much involved with the continued fertility of the land and its inhabitants.

Folk would honour the ancestors by bringing gifts of food and drink to the family howe (burial mound). There also survives the custom of sitting out on a mound in order to get the highly valued advice of the Ancestor within. Indeed the kindred Dead were considered to still be an integral part of the family by Heathens, and were treated as such. The ghostly Wild Hunt is another manifestation of the pervasive Heathen beliefs of the eternal connection of the living with the dead, and the fertility bestowing powers of the Ancestors. In Scandinavia it is the God Thor who is thought to be the origin of the Yule Elf.

The Julbock or Julbukk, the Yule Goat, who to this day plays a big part in Norse Yule festivities, is thought to derive from Thors magickal goats Tannginost and Tanngrisnir who draw His chariot through the sky. There are many legends that tell of Thors benevolent protectiveness of human kind, and of his jolly, fun-loving nature (at least when He is not in a Trollslaying mood). This seems more in line with modern conceptions of jolly Saint Nick than grim Oden the Wild Huntsman. The Yule goats carry the Yule Elf as he visits the folk, bestows gifts, and gets his traditional offering of porridge. Modern Yule decorations of straw formed into goats, straw-

goat ornamented wreaths, and a (mock) Yule goat head bourne about on a stick are all memories of Thors animals. When the Yule log burns on the hearth, some scholars say, it is an offering on Thors altar. Thus we have the legend of Santa coming down the chimney".

In Germany Frau Holda, Perchta, or Oskoreidi, and in Scandinavia and England The Wild Huntsman, come at Yule, leading hosts of the dead. The Perchtenlauf and other ritual perambulations are folk memories of earlier pagan processions at Yuletide. Either beautiful or monstrous, the masked Perchten, like the season itself, can be boonful or terrifying, and have their origins in very ancient Heathen beliefs. Winter Solstice is the time when the veils between the worlds are thin, and the dead may most easily manifest to the living. But it is not usually the human dead who were considered the most fearsome wights. At Yuletide spirits of all kinds are abroad; similar beliefs are held by Celtic Pagans of Samhain (Halloween).

In Norse lands Trolls of many types are roaming; draugr (rare and evil human ghosts of enormous strength) accost mortals, and the Alfar (Elves) both malicious and benevolent may drop by the homes of men. Many Yule customs that survive to this day have their origins in practices either meant to ward the home from evil wandering spirits at Yule, or conversely, to welcome good spirits into the home and show them thanks for the blessings they bestow. House wights (tutelary spirits of the home) and the respected dead of the family were welcomed gladly to the Yule feast. Food would be left out on the table for them after all had gone to bed.

At Yuletide hosts of dead could be seen (by those so gifted) feasting with great revelry in their mounds, and paying each other friendly visits in each others howes. Clearly Yule has a dual nature: it is the time of Death and darkness, when trolls, ghosts and alfs fare about, but it is also the time of return of the waxing Sun and celebration of Her promise of Life and light renewed.

The central celebration and rite of Yule is the holy feast. It is thought very important to spare nothing in providing for the guestsboth living and dead, human and wight. All good wights shared in the Yule feast; dogs and cats ate the same food as humans, and were brought into the house. Offerings of cream, beer, and bread were left out for the house-wights. If the feast were being held by a chieftain (or a wealthy community leader), many people would be invited and it would last many days, with presents being given to the guests upon their departure. For less wealthy folk, there would be as good a feast as could be provided, and of course the Yule ale would be shared in frith between family members and friends.

Sumble (ritual toasts) would be drunk to the Ancestors at this time as well, for Yule was the season for the recognition of the continuance of human life. The Ancestors would naturally be most welcome at the family celebration. Savoury foods such as mutton or leg of lamb, goose, pork, and beef, special Yule breads, porridge, apples, sweets and nuts are traditional. But most important is the Yule ale, brewed stronger than other ales, and considered holy. Oaths were sworn on the bragarfull (holy cup). Sumbles held during the days of Yule, and especially on Mothers Night, the Solstice, and Thirteenth Night are considered to be especially potent, being spoken in the presence of the Gods and wights at the most holy time of year. In Heathen times the sonargltr (hallowed Yule boar) was led in and the holiest of oaths were sworn upon it, as is recorded in Helgakvia Hjorvarssonar (The First Lay of Helgi Hjorvarthsson):

In the evening (Yule-eve) vows were made: the sacrificial boar was led in, men laid their hands on him and swore dear oaths as they drank from the hallowed cup. Then it was taken and slaughtered (not in a state of fear, but quickly) for the Yule feast. It was believed the soul of the animal went straight to the Gods, while its flesh provided the holy feast. In later times or among those too poor to own pigs, a special boar-shaped bread would take the place of the Yule boar.

Drinking Wassail at Yule is an English custom from Heathen times. Wassail comes from the Anglo-Saxon Wes Hal, meaning to your health".

The beverage is made from ale, wine, and/or cider with fruits and spices added. Traditionally it was used in part as an offering to apple trees in thanks and for their continued fruitfulness. Bits of toast were floated in the wassail bowl, then placed in the branches of the tree, and libations poured over the roots. This is the origin of our term to toast someone.

As well as fruit trees, evergreens have long been part of Winter Solstice celebrations. The evergreen tree, which keeps its leaves throughout the year, is an obvious symbol of the endurance of life through the cold and dark Winter months. Beer, bread, and table scraps were offered to trees in Scandinavia. In South Germany arose the custom of a branch or small tree brought inside and decorated with offerings to the spirit of the tree. This Yule tree was considered to represent the luck of the family (as the old Bairnstock did) as well as being honoured as a powerful wight in its own right, capable of bestowing fertility in the coming year.

The cosmic tree, Yggdrasil is an evergreen yew in some traditions, and an ash (rowan = European mountain ash ) in others. Both trees have bright red berries; possibly this is one origin of decorating the modern Yule tree with berries. The cosmic tree (the Axis mundi) bears all nine worlds of the Norse cosmos in its branches and among its roots, so perhaps tree ornaments in part represent the nine worlds. Trees are sacred to Germanic and Celtic peoples, and there are many ancient traditions of offerings tied onto trees as gifts to them, this practice is the most probable origin for the custom of decorating Yule trees with gifts. In Heathen times offerings were made to the Alfar (wights who govern growth and fertility in nature) in gratitude for harvest yields. The evergreen boughs brought inside to deck the halls represent the ever-renewed life force and serve to welcome good Alfar into the house. Not surprisingly, these holy boughs also served to protect the home from evil wights. Yew, rowan, and holly boughs are traditional Heathen choices for hall-decking.

Another Yule tradition that survives from Heathen times is the burning of a Yule Log. This was a specially chosen tree that was to burn for at least twelve hours, but possibly it originally burned for all twelve days of Yule. In

some legends the log was offered to Thor. Oak would be the most appropriate choice, but any hardwood considered holy from the locality is suitable. English lore holds that Yule logs should not be bought, they should be gotten from ones own property, or a neighbours. The log of course must be massive, and must be handled with care and clean hands, out of respect.

In some places a whole tree trunk was brought in, and one end was placed in hearth. Then it was gradually fed in as it burned, to be finally consumed on the final night. The tradition is that the presence of the remnants or ashes of the Yule log in the house would protect it all year from lightning and would bring good luck. The new Yule log should be started with some splinters of the previous years. Holly and other winter greenery is often used to decorate the Yule log. Today Heathens at need substitute a large candle (or series of candles) for it, and burn them starting on Mothers Night, all through the thirteen nights of the holy tide. This is done to honour and aid Sunna through the darkest time of the year, to ward off ill wights of darkness that might be about at Yule, and to symbolise the lengthening of daylight after Solstice.

Although it falls during the darkest time of year, Yuletide is holy and a time of peace. Frith is held between everyone, and all are focused on celebration, family, feasting,honouring the Ancestors, making holy oaths, and peace.

Correspondences Tools, Symbols & Decorations Bayberry candles, evergreens, holly, mistletoe, poinsettia,mistletoe, lights, gifts, Yule log, Yule tree, spinning wheels, wreaths, bells, mother & child images Colors Gold, silver, red, green, white Customs Lights, gift-exchanging, singing, feasting, resolutions, new fires kindled, strengthening family & friend bonds, generosity, Yule log, hanging mistletoe, apple wassailing, burning candles, Yule tree decorating; kissing under mistletoe; needfire at dawn vigil; bell ringing/sleigh-bells; father yule Animals/Mythical beings Yule goat (nordic), reindeer stag, squirrels, Yule cat, Sacred White Buffalo, Kallikantzaroi-ugly chaos monsters (greek), trolls, phoenix, Yule elf, Jule gnome, squirrels, wren/robin Gemstones Cat's eye, ruby, diamond, garnet, bloodstone

Herbs Blessed thistle, evergreen, moss, oak, sage, bay, bayberry, cedar, pine, frankincense, ginger, holly, ivy, juniper, mistletoe, myrrh, pinecones, rosemary, chamomile, cinnamon, valarion, yarrow Incense/Oil Bayberry, cedar, ginger, cinnamon, pine, rosemary, frankincense, myrrh, nutmeg, wintergreen, saffron Rituals/Magicks Personal renewal, world peace, honoring family & friends, Festival of light, meditation Foods Nuts, apple, pear, caraway cakes soaked with cider, pork, orange, hibiscus or ginger tea, roasted turkey, nuts, fruitcake, dried fruit, cookies, eggnog, mulled wine

The first Europeans to arrive in the New World brought St. Nicholas. Vikings dedicated their cathedral to him in Greenland. On his first voyage, Columbus named a Haitian port for St. Nicholas on December 6, 1492. In Florida, Spaniards named an early settlement St. Nicholas Ferry, now known as Jacksonville. However, St. Nicholas had a difficult time during the 16th century Protestant Reformation which took a dim view of saints. Even though both reformers and counter-reformers tried to stamp out St. Nicholas-related customs, they had very little long-term success except in England where the religious folk traditions were permanently altered. (It is ironic that fervent Puritan Christians began what turned into a trend to a more secular Christmas observance.) Because the common people so loved St. Nicholas, he survived on the European continent as people continued to place nuts, apples, and sweets in shoes left beside beds, on windowsills, or before the hearth. "New Year's Hymn to St. Nicholas," colonial Dutch life, Albany, NY. Harper's New Monthly Magazine, March 1881 St. Nicholas Center Collection The first Colonists, primarily Puritans and other Protestant reformers, did not bring Nicholas traditions to the New World. What about the Dutch? Although it is almost universally believed that the Dutch brought St. Nicholas to New Amsterdam, scholars find scant evidence of such traditions in Dutch New Netherland. Colonial Germans in Pennsylvania kept the feast of St. Nicholas, and several later accounts have St. Nicholas visiting New York Dutch on New Years' Eve, thus adopting the English custom (New Year gift-giving had become the English custom in 1558, supplanting Nicholas, and this English custom lasted in New York until 1847).

In 1773 New York non-Dutch patriots formed the Sons of St. Nicholas, primarily as a non-British symbol to counter the English St. George societies, rather than to honor St. Nicholas. This society was similar to the Sons of St. Tammany in Philadelphia. Not exactly St. Nicholas, the children's gift-giver. Detail from broadside by Alexander Anderson, December 6, 1810 St Nicholas Center Collection After the American Revolution, New Yorkers remembered with pride their colony's nearly-forgotten Dutch roots. John Pintard, the influential patriot and antiquarian who founded the New York Historical Society in 1804, promoted St. Nicholas as patron saint of both society and city. In January 1809, Washington Irving joined the society and on St. Nicholas Day that same year, he published the satirical fiction, Knickerbocker's History of New York, with numerous references to a jolly St. Nicholas character. This was not the saintly bishop, rather an elfin Dutch burgher with a clay pipe. These delightful flights of imagination are the source of the New Amsterdam St. Nicholas legends: that the first Dutch emigrant ship had a figurehead of St. Nicholas: that St. Nicholas Day was observed in the colony; that the first church was dedicated to him; and that St. Nicholas comes down chimneys to bring gifts. Irving's work was regarded as the "first notable work of imagination in the New World." The New York Historical Society held its first St. Nicholas anniversary dinner on December 6, 1810. John Pintard commissioned artist Alexander Anderson to create the first American image of Nicholas for the occasion. Nicholas was shown in a gift-giving role with children's treats in stockings hanging at a fireplace. The accompanying poem ends, "Saint Nicholas, my dear good friend! To serve you ever was my end, If you will, now, me something give, I'll serve you ever while I live." The 19th century was a time of cultural transition. New York writers, and others, wanted to domesticate the Christmas holiday. After Puritans and other Calvinists had eliminated Christmas as a holy season, popular celebrations became riotous, featuring

drunken men and public disorder. Christmas of old was not the images we imagine of families gathered cozily around hearth and tree exchanging pretty gifts and singing carols while smiling benevolently at children. Rather, it was characterized by raucous, drunken mobs roaming streets, damaging property, threatening and frightening the upper classes. The holiday season, coming after harvest when work was eased and more leisure possible, was a time when workers and servants took the upper hand, demanding largess and more. Through the first half of the 19th century, Presbyterians, Baptists, Quakers, Catholics, Episcopalians and others continued to regard December 25th as a day without religious significance, often in very strong language. Industrialists were happy to reduce workers' leisure time and allowed many fewer holidays than existed in Europe. All of this began to change as a new understanding of family life and the place of children was emerging. Childhood was coming to be seen as a stage of life in which greater protection, sheltering, training and education were needed. And so the season came gradually to be tamed, turning toward shops and home. St. Nicholas, too, took on new attributes to fit the changing times. Sante Claus The Children's Friend, 1821 William B. Gilley, publisher 1821 brought some new elements with publication of the first lithographed book in America, the Children's Friend. This "Sante Claus" arrived from the North in a sleigh with a flying reindeer. The anonymous poem and illustrations proved pivotal in shifting imagery away from a saintly bishop. Sante Claus fit a didactic mode, rewarding good behavior and punishing bad, leaving a "long, black birchen rod . . . directs a Parent's hand to use when virtue's path his sons refuse." Gifts were safe toys, "pretty doll . . . peg-top, or a ball; no crackers, cannons, squibs, or rockets to blow their eyes up, or their pockets. No drums to stun their Mother's ear, nor swords to make their sisters fear; but pretty books to store their mind with knowledge of each various kind." The sleigh itself even sported a bookshelf for the "pretty books." The book also

notably marked S. Claus' first appearance on Christmas Eve, rather than December 6th. The jolly elf image received another big boost in 1823, from a poem destined to become immensely popular, "A Visit from St. Nicholas," now better known as "The Night Before Christmas." He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot; A bundle of toys he had flung on his back, And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack. His eyeshow they twinkled! his dimples how merry! His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry! His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow; The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath; He had a broad face and a little round belly, That shook, when he laughed like a bowlful of jelly. He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf. . . . Source The Story of St. Nicholas an interview with Jeremy Seal by Renee Montagne, Morning Edition, December 23, 2005 How Santa Saved N.Y. by Michael Grady, Tribune columnist, East Valley Tribune, Phoenix, December 15, 2007. A good summary of how Christmas changed and Santa Claus came to be in the 19th century.

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One of our hot topics but fun is Dear Santa Here are some of the responses

Reply by Garnett Jewell yesterday The only thing I can even begin to write a request for is: Peace , prosperity, and the end of strife for myself, my family, my friends, and the world. So many things are going on- wars, monetary woes, people out of work, no homes, etc. My wishes are a deep want for all the worldly ills to be banished and for everyone to have all of their needs metfinancially, physically, and emotionally . Reply by NightPixie

I wish people would really look into themselves and become more tolerant, less judgemental, honest,when you form friendships don't be fake..be a true friend through thick and thin, be true to yourself and follow your own dreams and truths...not someone else's...be your real selves...think of others and not only

yourself...be less hurtful towards others......involve yourselves in the welfare of others on this planet including animals and learn to appreciate and heal Mother Earth....

Reply by serene yesterday

i totally adore this...! what an awesome idea...! wow! and ditto on all that has been said... with such beautiful wish's i think you'all have pretty much covered what i'd like to ask for... lol... how about an i'm grateful for list... for this past year's wish's coming true...? i know i have so many things and wish's that came true for me... it was in many way's a truly magical year!... and... i do believe that like begets like... so... for every wish and asked for thing... let us add a thank you and wish of gratitude...

Reply by Lady Willow FireMoon yesterday Dear Santa: =) This year, I would like to ask for peace throughout our Earth, understanding and compassion, healing and happiness for all! ....and a new computer would be great too!! LOL Thank you Santa! LWFM )0(

Reply by Mystikal Melita yesterday Dear Santa; I wish that you would help some of the Adults in this World to understand the real meaning of Love and Giving so the World could become a place of Peace and that you can give each Child in the World a moment of Joy that will touch their Hearts forever. Your Number One Fan, Melita

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MEMORIES WE TREASURE

Here Lays Big Bird Here lays big bird He was a sweet fellow So big yet so mellow He brought us great pleasure His memory we treasure His sacrifice so grand Though he cried And he ran When Ernie took after him Hatchet in hand A drumstick for Bert Elmo some breast Our bellies get full Afterward we rest Here lays Big Bird May he rest in peace We shall always remember him With great love and memories Of this feast Arizona Flame

A Viking-Asatru Christmas Carol 'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the Hall Not a creature was stirring, not warrior nor thrall. And I in my armor, my greaves and my helm Was drunker than anyone else in the Realm.

I staggered upstairs and fell into bed While four quarts of mead were ablaze in my head. Then up from below came the sounds of a brawl So I grabbed up my axe and ran down to the Hall.

I missed the last step and crashed down in a heap Thinking, "Why can't those low-lifes downstairs go to sleep!" When what to my wondering eyes should appear But two brawny strangers, wielding mallet and spear.

I said to myself, "We'll soon have them beat!" Then I noticed ten warriors laid out at their feet. I gave out a yell and leapt into the fray... I'll always regret my poor choice of that day.

For the one laid his hammer to the side of my nose And up, up, up to the rafters I rose. Then came a lone frightened voice from the floor, "Those are no mortal warriors -- that's Odin and Thor!"

Then they looked at each other and they said, "Battle's done. Now they know who we are, it no longer is fun." Then Thor raised his hammer, and his elbow he bent, And with a loud crash, through the ceiling they went.

I crawled through the Hall and flung open the door, Not really sure that I'd seen them before. The snow bathed in starlight, the moon like a glede, I saw them ride off on an eight-legged steed.

And I heard them exclaim, 'ere they flew out of sight,

"TO HELA WITH CHRISTMAS, WE JUST LOVE A GOOD FIGHT!" Author Unknown

The Holiday Totems The year is not only divided by the eight solar and agricultural holidays, but also by the Kalends which has a 13th month for Samhain. These month cycles are also associated with 3 totem spirits. Each month has its own animal or bird dedicated to it and a tree. The totems for December are the Wren, Goat and Holly. Their attributes are listed below: The Goat or Gabhar: is known for surefootedness. sensuality, achievement and sacrifice The Wren or Drui-en: is known for resourcefulness, boldness sacrifice Holly or Tinne: is known for protection, achievement, sensuality and sacrifice First we will discuss the Goat: GOAT: According to the Zodiac, the goat is depicted as Capricorn. This is the time of year for new ideas and taking some initiative. Goat horns are associated with future reading receptors. They are protective with built-in weapons of defense. The goat's thick coat is warmth during cold hard times. It represents survival. Kids are able to stand immediately after birth which shows strength and agility. Originally, the Yule Goat was sacrificed and eaten during the Germanic Pagan Festival of Yule. Throughout the years, the tradition evolved to making a goat figure out of straw which continues to be in traditions of today. It is also associated with the custom of wassailing. A Swedish custom, the Yule Sacrifice, continued until 1940 - 1960ish in various parts o the country. It was called the Yule Sacrifice which at the time, was better known as Juleoffer. It involved a play-like presentation of a man dressed in goatskins and horns. He would be led by two men who brought forth the Goat as an offering to the Gods. The men would brandish there knives and the Goat would undergo a mock-sacrifice. There would be music. The men would sing about mantles of many colors which they would lay over-top the Goat one by one. At the song's

conclusion,the Yule Goat was resurrected. He jumps and dances about on the stage. It was known to be a very boisterous and festive occasion. Next comes the Wren and the children it would excite. WREN: The Wren is the most sacred bird among the Celts and the Druids. Legend says the Wren soared upon the back of an Eagle to the heavens. Together, they soared above all the other birds. The Wren then flew off the Eagles wing and flew higher than the Eagle could even go. The Wren kept soaring on up until finally coming to a portal which led beyond the heavens. Finally, the Wren had reached the doorway to the Spirit world. The Wren became the most sacred of all birds as word reached not only the animal kingdom but to man as well. Wren was noted by hunters for deceiving them by misleading them when building false nests which lead the hunters away. Only a bird of cunning and intelligence could manage to trick man. It is believed the Wren brought fire down from the heavens delivering it to man. Wren was admired and nurtured by the Druid women when it was noticed the fire had singed his tailfeathes, yet Wren managed to still bring them fire. The women nurtured Wren's tail until it was healed. The injury had left Wren with a distinctive blunt tail which has been carried on through the generations as a reminder. There is yet another legend of a mermaid who transformed herself into a Wren. When the sailors spotted her, they would receive her message. They must wear magickal Wren feathers when at sea to protect them from bad weather and drowning. The gentle Wren became known as the King of all birds. Although the bird is revered, Wrens die every year on St.Stephen's Day, December 26.This is the time of year the designated Wren Boyswould hunt the birds for sacrament. According to Irish Tradition, the Wren symbolizes the old year (the Holly King) while the robin symbolizes the year to come, either the Oak King or Yule's newly risen sun.

Eager little boys would be placed in groups. They would hunt or chase the poor bird until it was either caught or collapsed from exhaustion. One heck of a way to say Thank You, but who am I to say? The deceased bird would be tied high in a Holly Bush or the top of a pole which the little girls had decorated with pretty colorful ribbons, colored paper and strips of bright cloth. On Stephen's Day Eve, many boys and girls would toss and turn restlessly in their sleep while others barely slept at all. After what seemed an eternity, morning would finally come. Children would be jumping out of the woodwork, half-dressed as their Mothers sent them back inside to dress appropriately. (Long-johns with trapdoors just wouldn't do.) At last! Wearing straw masks or smeared black coal on their faces, the boys would all gather to carry the wren from house to house. They would dress appropriately in old clothes for the occasion. While carrying the little Wren around the boys would proudly sing a song such as this; The wren, the wren, the king of all birds, On St. Stephen's Day was caught in the furze, Although he is little, his family is great, I pray you, good landlady, give us a treat. My box would speak, if it had but a tongue, And two or three shillings, would do it not wrong, Sing holly, sing ivy--sing ivy, sing holly, A drop just to drink, it would drown melancholy. And if you draw it of the best, I hope in heaven your soul will rest; But if you draw it of the small, It won't agree with these wren boys at all. C:\Users\Owner\AppData\Local\Temp\cauldron news.odt

The wren, the wren, the king of all birds, On St. Stephen's Day was caught in the furze; Up with the kettle and down with the pan, Pray give us a penny to bury the wren. Author Unknown The Wren Boys would be collecting coins from those who wished, as they sang from house to house. A feather of the Wren would be given in return for this offering. All monies donated would be used by the entire village to hold a festive dance known as the Wren Dance. C:\Users\Owner\AppData\Local\Temp\cauldron news.odt Finally, we come to Holly and all it symbolizes: HOLLY: Holly is a beautiful shrub or small tree which grows to about 30 feet or so. In May it will adorn itself with tiny star-shaped flowers. Later in the fall, it adorns itself with brightly colored Holly berries which are very poisonous to all, with exception of birds. Holly offers protection against evil spirits, angry elementals, thunder and lighting, poisons, an uninvited spirits. It is a powerfully strong herb. Being an evergreen, it symbolizes immortality, good luck and prosperity. It is also associated with wisdom, courage and dream magic. Every winter the Celts would bring Holly into their homes to provide shelter to elves and the fae. However it was necessary to remove before the Eve of Imbolc because the fae could not live peacefully with humans past this day. Holly has a long association with Midwinter religious observances. Its bright leaves and brilliant red berries can lift the spirits and fight depression which occurs most often in the long,dark,cold winter months. Holly branches should be pulled free and never cut. This should be the practice with all sacred trees. It is unlucky to burn or bury green-skinned Holly branches. If Holly brought in for Yule decorations is hung on the door throughout the year, it will offer protection against storms. Should a man place a little

Holly in his pocket, he shall appear more attractive to the ladies. Wands made of Holly have powerful strength and guard against evil spirits.

Entreaty Unto the Devil of the Hedge As the Lord of Holly Author Unknown Holy, Holy, Holy: Praise be the Skull-Tree of Cain! O Blessed Head on Hulver throne I call thee by thy Names Unknown: Father of Good Death, Lord of Bone; Green-crown'd as Man-of-the-Wold, Bejewel'd with the Year's own Blood, And corpses of the Kings of old. Now rouse the Rustic Army all The Wild Host shall heed thy call, And fight where all thy shadows fall: Then go thou forth in battle brave, Raise thy rugged Hollin-stave And lay the sun-gods in their grave. Praise be the Skull-Tree of Cain! Flesh and blood are born upon thee, Flesh and blood grow upon thee, Flesh and blood die upon thee, Thou Holy Corpse of God. For Redden'd is the thorn-thicket of Exile, Blacken'd are the Bones of Sacrifice, And Green'd the risen Skin of Man, Mantle of the Sojourner, Book of Wort-Magick Entire. Holy, Holy, Holy: Praise be the Skull-Tree of Cain! Praise be the Skull-Tree of Cain! The Pleasure Garden of Shadow by Daniel A. Schulke

Essay by Arizona Flame Research came from a variety of sources including the Wiki Encyclopedia and History of Celtic Holiday Traditions. Illustration from: http://celticanamcara.blogspot.com

Easy... fast fun... I put my missletoe on this one... and put it in a good kissing spot...(remember it is poisonous... ) , so place safely please .Here's a great driftwood tree i just love the picture of...

A Question from Tammy I used to have high psychic abilities when I was younger, and it kind of lowered for awhile. They are somewhat coming back as I have had extremely high energy in my apartment with a man who died in here before I moved in. My question is though, how can I home these abilities back in again, as I want to use them more now that I am older? ____________ Excellent question, Tammy. One thing you can do is to get some benzoin incense. Benzoin is good for breaking down psychic blocks. Benzoin is a resin, so youll need to use special incense charcoal. I use it for literally inspiring my writing. Since much, if not all of my writing, comes from my subconscious, I burn it to break down those blocks, and get the words flowing again. With that taken care of, you can then try your hand at some psychic activities, just to flex your psychic muscles, and get your psyche flowing again. Psychometry: Have a friend or relative hand you an object that belonged to a relative, friend, or family member. Dont let them tell you anything about the object. Handle the object with your receptive hand while you scribble notes about your impressions about it with your dominant hand. Dont worry about

whether the impressions are right or wrong, silly, or dignified. What you are going for is raw psychic data. Its a lot like brainstorming. Dont even read it until you are done. Automatic Writing/typing: This can be done by either handwriting or typing on your computer. Do whichever is more comfortable for you. Contact the spirit of the man who died in your house. Regardless of whether you consider yourself to be a medium or not, you can contact your houses ghost. Just address him the same way you would any living person. If it would help, set a place for him at the table as if you were having a Dumb Supper. A Dumb Supper, if you dont already know what it is, is usually done at Samhain when the veil between the worlds is at its thinnest. An extra place is set at the table for the dearly departed, then no speech is used, so that the air is clear for the spirits of the dead to speak to the living. I think this technique can be used any time of year. Psychokinesis: Choose a light weight object such as a feather or a box of matches such as you might get at a restaurant or a drinking establishment. Put it out of your reach. Sit comfortably and gaze at the object for five minutes. Try to raise it from the surface it is resting on with your mind Visualize it rising from its position. For the first week stare at the object, willing it to move for five minutes per day. The second week, increase the time to 10 minutes Do not skip any days You cant make up the time by doubling up on the time. Under no circumstances are youi to spend more than 20 minutes a day at this activity. Regard this not as work, but as play, the way a child would do it. Once you succeed in moving your object, play with it, see what you can do with it Divination: Learn the Tarot or some other divination system. Take notes of which predictions come true, and which do not. These are all the activities I can think of for now, and besides I have a deadline to meet. Think of some activities of your own, and keep good records.. ------------

Author- Rev Garnett Jewell Meditation Meditation is defined as the practice in which the individual trains his mind and/or induces a mode of consciousness to realize some benefit. Benefits may be such as bringing relaxation, alleviating stress, and begin the healing process after disease and surgery. Many people use meditation as a stepping stone to taking astral journeys and to contact their spiritual guides. Practice can lead to building internal energy and they also receive psychic visions when in this state. It can be targeted to help many people feel closer to God when they are in this state. It lends itself to a feeling of well- being which continues long after coming out of the meditative state. Many physicians feel that meditation is beneficial to their patients as they have a lower blood pressure, and a feeling of well being which lends itself to faster healing. Patients can lower heart rate as they learn proper skills. After they attain a good practice of the art, it can be equated with a long lasting, indestructible sense of well- being. Anger and hatred can be alleviated when using a long standing practice. The history of meditation can be traced to antiquity. Even seen in practice during prehistoric times, meditation was shown in repetitive rhythmic chants and offerings to appease the Gods. In fact, it is thought that it had a part in the cycle of human evolution. There are signs of meditation shown in Taoist, Christian, Hindu, Islamic, and Buddhist traditions.

The position during meditation does not matter as only the awareness does. It can be accomplished either sitting, laying, or standing, active or inactive. Prayer beads or other ritual objects can also be used to help remind or keep track of this activity. Many religions have included meditation into their practices. They play radical importance to how the deities are focused upon and praised. Meditation is shown to improve, steady, composed, unify, and concentrate which leads to seeing, exploring and discerning without obscuring hinderances. The evolution of New Age practices has brought many to the art itself. Many other forms included in the New Age pracitices are shamanistic lucid dreaming and astral journeying, theistic-concentration meditations (clinging to god, Gnosis), contemplation, visualization, hypnotherapy, aromatherapy, chakra clearing, kundalini, breathing exercises, training of single-pointed attention, training in mindfulness, training in single-pointed analysis, vision questing, chi building exercises, and so on, developed for various ends(Wikipedia, 2012). Many of these practices thought new are just extensions of faith based meditation from ancient groups. New Age practices began as a rebellion of youth against Christianity. This failure had began to show in the era of the Hippies as a blanking out of the mind and release from the conscious thinking. It was also aided by a chant of a mantra or a focus on an object. The early Eastern philosophy was blended with some degree of Western influence and grew new mainstream roots during the social revolution of the 60s and 70s. Forms of the traditional items used during meditation are Rosaries, which contain 5 decades of ten beads plus several that begin and end the sets of prayers, and mala beads (which consist of 100 beads and an extra eight to compensate for missed beads. The Muslim misbaha beds consist of 99 beads but different sects have their own rules. The National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine reports that it may be practiced for many reasons, such as to increase calmness and physical relaxation, to improve psychological balance, to cope with illness, or to enhance overall health and well-being." An additional form of meditation is called biofeedback which has been used since the 1950s to help induce a deeper state of mind.

Many world renowned schools such as Harvard University have performed testing on different styles of meditation called Tibetan Buddhism and even Transcendental Meditation techniques. These studies have proven the link between the practice and the improvement of well being of those who practice this art. Reference: Wikipedia- the free encyclopedia, 2012

Now let us meditate together..

Yule Meditation

Think of your favorite place in a field. The breeze that moves the leaves and grass ever so slightly. There is a nice crisp feeling to the air and you hear the birds as they dive toward the earth and then tumble and rise again. There is large log a few feet from you. A comfortable place to rest and just think You listen as the grass and the golden leaves crunch slightly under your feet. There are so many shades on the trees and all along the the hillside. You take a few steps and sit on the log, making sure you comfortable. You hear many animals near and the rabbits and squirrels show themselves as they run happily past where you sit. The air is clear and you can feel it lightly blow through your hair. You breathe slowly, taking in as much as you can until your lungs are full and then you hold the breath momentarily before you release it ever so slowly. It makes you feel relaxed and you take in another breath and release it. By this time, your thoughts are on the beating of your heart and the feel of the blood coursing through your veins. You think of the rough feel of the bark under your fingers. Small pieces fall away from the log as you run your fingertips across it. You lean over and touch the blades of grass. It still gives under your touch as it is not too dry. Your fingertips are able to make the tiniest item feel huge. You think of the feeling of the tree while it stood tall. The way the tree gave to a heavy wind. You think of the roots going deep into the ground. The leaves and limbs stretch up into the sky. Your arms go out to the sky to reach through the air- up, into space. You look and watch the planets moving toward each other. The dark surrounds you. It is cool and you reach toward the moon. It looms in front of you. Shining brightly against the dark. The reflection of the sun on it. You touch the surface and there are large craters there. They sink down. As

you pick up the dirt, it falls between your fingertips before it lands on the surface. You wonder why the moon shines so brightly like it is on fire but feels different to your hands. The wonders of the Dieties are here. You know it is time to return as go through the air and head toward earth again. You go through the clouds and head toward the log you were sitting on. The air is still crisp and clean and the breeze soft against your skin. The rustle of leaves makes you look around yourself to see what animal is close. There is the sound of your breath again and the feel of your heart beating. You are home and relaxed after touching the sky and feeling the Moon. You know the Gods and Goddesses are there to watch over us and therefore, all is right with the world at this moment.

Crafts

How to make a Besome By Serene The besom is the traditional witch's broom. It's associated with all kinds of legend and folklore, including the popular notion that witches fly around in the night on a broomstick. In addition to being good for playing Quidditch, the besom is a great addition to your collection of magical tools -- it's used in many traditions as a method of cleansing or purifying a space. In some cultures, the rite of jumping the broom was considered an important part of a marriage ceremony. This ritual has seen some resurgence in popularity as more and more Wiccan and Pagan couples celebrate handfastings.

While it's easy to just buy a broom, it's also pretty easy to make one of your own out of different types of wood. Although the items that follow are for the more traditional style of besom, you can use nearly any types of branches available to you. You'll need:

A four-foot length of ash or oak for the handle Thin branches of birch for the bristle part (you can substitute a woody herb like mugwort or thyme for the bristles if you like) Lengths of willow or heavy cord to bind everything together

You'll also need scissors and a bucket of warm water. Whatever you'll be using for the bristles -- whether it's birch, an herb, or some other wood -- should be soaked in the warm water overnight to make them pliable, as should the willow binding, if you're using it.

Lay the handle on a table or the floor, and place the bristles alongside it, lined up about four inches from the bottom. Point the bottom of the bristles towards the top of the broom, because you're going to flip the bristles in a minute (see Fig. 1).

Use the willow branches or cording to wrap the bristles around the broom (Fig. 2). Add as many as you want to make the broom full. Make sure you tie the cording off securely so your bristles don't come popping out later.

Now, take the bristles and fold them down over the willow binding or cording so that they're pointing towards the bottom of the broom. Tie them down again at the base of the broomstick to secure them(Fig. 3). As you're wrapping the cord in place, visualize your intent for this besom. Will it be strictly decorative? Are you going to hang it in place over a door? Perhaps you'll use it ceremonially, or maybe even for physical cleaning. Focus on what you're going to be doing it, and charge it with energy.

Let your broom dry for a day or two, and when it's all done, consecrate it as one of your magical tools.

and for fun...some pictures and a few ideas for decorating your new besom for the yule season...

From Alayana- (Owner of Broomriders) Will and Guy's Top Ten Funny Christmas Trivia 1. "Wassail" comes from the Old Norse "ves heill" - to be of good health. This evolved into the tradition of visiting neighbours on Christmas Eve and drinking to their health. 2. A traditional Christmas dinner in early England was the head of a pig prepared with mustard. 3. According to a 1995 survey, 7 out of 10 British dogs get Christmas gifts from their doting owners. 4. During the ancient 12-day Christmas celebration, the log burned was called the "Yule log". Sometimes a piece of the Yule log would be kept to kindle the fire the following winter, to ensure that the good luck carried on from year to year. The Yule log custom was handed down from the Druids. 5. During the Christmas buying season, Visa cards alone are used an average of 5,340 times every minute in the United States. 6. After "A Christmas Carol," Charles Dickens wrote several other Christmas stories, one each year, but none was as successful as the original. 7. Although many believe the Friday after Thanksgiving is the busiest shopping day of the year, it is not. It is the fifth to tenth busiest day. The Friday and Saturday before Christmas are the two busiest shopping days of the year. 8. Charles Dickens' initial choice for Scrooge's statement "Bah Humbug" was "Bah Christmas." 9. Christmas trees are edible. Many parts of pines, spruces, and firs can be eaten. The needles are a good source of vitamin C. Pine nuts, or pine cones, are also a good source of nutrition.

10.

In Britain, the Holy Days and Fasting Days Act of 1551, which has not yet been repealed, states that every citizen must attend a Christian church service on Christmas Day, and must not use any kind of vehicle to get to the service. Christmas Trivia from Around the World

Ukraine: An artificial spider and web are often included in the decorations on Ukrainian Christmas trees. A spider web found on Christmas morning is believed to bring good luck. (Because it kills flies in Champagne!). A traditional Christmas bread called 'kolach' is placed in the centre of the dining table. This bread is braided into a ring, and three such rings are placed one on top of the other with a candle in the middle of the top one.

The three rings symbolize the Christian Holy Trinity. Canada: Father Christmas has his own personal zip code [postcode]; it is the alphanumeric number: H0H 0H0. (Ho-Ho-Ho) In this way people who write to Santa know that their letter will arrive safely. It has been his personal code since 1982 and Will and Guy have learned that this address receives some 1 million letters from all over the world each year. Apparently, each letter received will be answered in the same language in which it is written, which, on its own must be a mammoth task. New Zealand: Santa's address in New Zealand is: Santa Claus Santa's Workshop The North Pole 0001. To contact Santa online go to www.nzpost.co.nz/christmas Australia: Santa can be contacted at Santa Claus, North Pole 9999 and last year he received some 90,000 letters. See more Christmas card trivia. UK: Santa can be reached by including the following postcode: SAN TA1

USA: Towns in the United States with Christmassy names are: Santa Claus, Arizona and Indiana; Noel, Missouri and Christmas, Arizona and in Florida. Venezuela: In Caracas, the capital, it is customary for the streets to be blocked off on Christmas Eve so that the people can roller-skate to church. UK: It is a British Christmas tradition that a wish made while mixing the Christmas pudding will come true only if the ingredients are stirred in a clockwise direction and each family member has a stir of the mix. Furthermore, a traditional Christmas dinner in medieval England was the head of a pig prepared with mustard. Norway: on Christmas Eve all the brooms in the house are hidden because long ago it was believed that witches and mischievous spirits came out on Christmas Eve and would steal their brooms for riding. Japan: Sending red Christmas cards to anyone in Japan constitutes bad etiquette, since funeral notices there are customarily printed in red. Syria: Christmas gifts are distributed by one of the Wise Men's camels. Christmas in Korea Young ladies skating in Mother Claus costumes in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. Aren't they lucky to have ice and probably snow too. Incidentally, South Korea is the only East Asian country to recognise Christmas with a national holiday. http://www.guysports.com/humor/christmas/funny_christmas_trivia.htm

Some fun facts about Yule and the Yuletide season. Today Yule is a name that can be applied to the winter solstice, which is celebrated around December 21, or to Christmas on December 25. Yule logs have grown smaller over time, but originally the log was large enough to last all twelve days of Christmas. The first Christmas celebrations in America took place in 1607 among the survivors of the Jamestown settlement. The original dates of Yule varied according to the lunar calendar. Candles have often been a staple decoration around Yule time in both ancient and modern celebrations because the fire of the candles represents the sun, which has faded in the winter. In 1643 the British Parliament abolished the Christmas holiday and all related festivities. They felt it was too heathen a celebration to allow. Santa as he is viewed today (red suit, big belly, white beard) was popularized by the Coca-Cola company in their early Christmas ads. A common feature of the Yuletide season today, the commemorative Christmas stamp, was first issued in 1937 in Austria. The reindeer Blitzen's name means "lightning." Donder means "thunder" and was the original name of reindeer Donner, who was paired with Blitzen to pull Santa's sleigh. Originally "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" was written as a sales gimmick for the Montgomery Ward Company in 1939. Packets with the lyrics were passed out to every customer in the store during Christmas time. Hansel and Gretel, one of the stories of the Brothers Grimm, popularized gingerbread houses in the 19th century. In Old Nordic stories, Yule was the main feast of the year and lasted for three nights. The Yule log tradition originated in Germany around the 12th century, hundreds of years before Santa Claus and the tradition of Christmas trees. Yule logs are burned in the fireplace on Christmas Eve. For the winter solstice holiday, the Yule log represented light and warmth in the dark of winter to ancient people. English "Yule" is the modern version of Old English words with a similar meaning: "geol" or "geohol". In Finland, there is a character similar to Santa Claus called Joulupukki, which means "Yule Goat". However, the Joulupukki is

not a goat and the name likely comes from an earlier tradition. The Joulupukki is a man who knocks on the doors of homes, handing out presents to good children. In Norway, Yule is celebrated beginning the evening of December 23 and lasts for thirteen days. Sources: Absolute Astronomy--a history of Yule in various countries. eHow, "Facts About the Yule Log" Pagan Yule Carols: Christmas Time Is Pagan!

Tune: "Gloria in Excelsius Deo" Christmas time is here again, Decorations everywhere. Christmas carols ringing out, Gentle pagans, we don't care. Chorus: Glorious! Christmas time is pagan! Glorious! Christmas time is pagan! Modern folks all celebrate What they learned in Sunday School. In December, they don't know They are celebrating Yule! Chorus

Let them have their Christmas trees, Decked in red and green and blue. We rejoice at every one! Christmas trees are pagan, too. Chorus Bowls of bubbly Christmas cheer, Fill your cup and quench your thirst. They think the tradition's theirs. Wassail bowls were pagan, first. Chorus Every door and window bears Wreaths of holly, wreaths of pine. Circles represent the Sun. Every wreath is yours and mine. Chorus Christmas lights on Christmas trees, Candle flames burn higher and higher, Let us cheer along, my friends, As they light their Yuletide fire. Chorus There's a possibility That this song is yours and mine 'Cause the tune was known to all Back in A.D. one-two-nine. Chorus Good Morrow, Happy Paganfolk To the tune of "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" - words by William Baldwin Good morrow, happy paganfolk, The great and mighty Horned One

On this great day of Yule. And may ye brightly celebrate And sing and dance and fool. And deeply drain the wine of life From Heaven's glistening pool.

Whose trident some do see, Destroys and builds the world anew From Birth and Death and Thee! He leads us through illusion To the everlivingtree.

CHORUS: CHORUS O partake of the ecstasy and joy, Now may the GODS and GODDESSES Laughter and joy, Bestow on us the grace, O partake of the ecstasy and joy. To ever walk in balance with The good and gracious Lady, The Spirits of the place. Her only law is love, And lead us all to Paradise To cherish every living thing To greet them face to face. Below us and above, CHORUS She reigneth as She did of old The Queen of Heaven above. CHORUS

I apparently wiped out most of my holiday recipes so looking on line for similar here is what I found so far:
1 can - Cherry pie filling (usually only comes as 24oz) 2/3 can of Sweetened Condensed Milk (usually only comes as 14 oz) (I use it all!) 1 can of Crushed Pineapple (usually only comes as 8 oz) 2/3 bag Mini Marshmallows 1 cup Chopped Pecans (optional) 16-24oz Cool Whip (personal preference richer flavor or stretch for more people) You will need a large mixing Bowl and a spoon and a spatula (both for licking clean when finished)! First, completely drain the crushed pineapple. I've tried this a few ways. The best way I have found is using a small wire mesh strainer and a spatula and pushing all the juice into a cup or bowl (to drink or discard). The more juice you drain the better or else it will cause separation. (Of course if you have Pineapple allergies - you can omit this ingredient too!) Next combine all the ingredients except the cool whip and the cherry pie filling. Make sure to mix well. Then fold in the cherry pie filling and then fold in the Cool Whip. I say fold, because you don't want to crush all the cherries, and you don't want to flatten the cool whip.

The best way to eat it is to let it sit overnight. (http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_PBMKAgmDvo/StZqEl64hfI/AAAAAAAAAUM/fXBmAEjiixI/s1600h/IMG_1655.JPG) 4 eggs beaten 250 grams sugar powdered 3 tablespoons Icing sugar 200 grams sugar 3 tablespoons cocoa powder 2 teaspoon Nescafe 125 grams fresh cream 50 grams chopped walnuts 1 teaspoon baking powder teaspoon salt.

Sift the cocoa powder, Nescafe, flour and baking powder together. Cream the butter and sugar together well. Add the eggs one by one and mix well. Add the vanilla essence. Now add the sifted flour with the other ingredients and fold in the mixture to form a smooth slightly thick consistency without lumps. Pour into a greased and papered long cake tin and bake in a hot oven for 30 to 35 minutes till slightly golden on top. Remove from the cake tin and turn it out on a sheet of paper, which has been liberally sprinkled with icing sugar. Roll the cake tightly with this paper so as to form a log and keep aside to cool. Beat the fresh cream with 3 tablespoons of icing sugar and 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder till peaks form. Unroll the log cake from the paper and place on a suitable plate. Using a spatula, cover the cake with the icing. Then with a wet fork make long lines across the surface of the icing to create a bark effect on the log. Store in the refrigerator until required for serving. Before serving, dust with icing sugar and decorate with some fresh small leaves.

(http://api.ning.com:80/files/ZjLA0KkE1xp0KOWplgr42lMIEHiPL3D2U93cPCzDZtwC29iOaqyrfLWWRU9BFxPRjK*TIpdmCUHEKG-cU3PzkGshlmKCf1/yulelogcake.jpg) 1/3 cup Imperial Sugar / Dixie Crystals Granulated Sugar 6 tablespoons plus 1-1/2 teaspoons water 1/3 cup evaporated milk 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 12 drops neon green food coloring 1 bottle (2 liters) lemon-lime soda, chilled 2 pints vanilla ice cream Directions In a large saucepan, combine sugar and water. Cook and stir over medium heat until sugar is dissolved; remove from the heat. Stir in milk and extract. Transfer to a bowl; cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate until chilled. Just before serving, transfer milk mixture to a punch bowl. Stir in the food coloring and soda. Top with scoops of ice cream. Yield: 4 quarts. Nutritional Facts 1 cup equals 142 calories, 4 g fat (2 g saturated fat), 16 mg cholesterol, 46 mg sodium, 26 g carbohydrate, 0 fiber, 1 g protein. (http://api.ning.com:80/files/qrvXEWb5e4Kf*BK*KImMSSrHREpvquS0Qi bv*9EGWChAV3fnyk6UJDF4B9nVJ5cXBEmmAXLcTnFfDxPmppKq9mtvJ4Ym2mO/grinchpunch.jpg)

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