FULL MOON RITUAL December 2000

Jess trudges through calf-high drifts of snow. Her breath puffs out in small clouds in the cold air. Yes, it's cold. Damned cold!.But the air is dry and the sun is shining. The trees shelter her from the wind coming off Storsjön, the lake which surrounds the island of Frösön here in central Sweden. The hill she climbs holds a Viking stronghold or fort: earthworks and rock walls are all that remain. Signs highlight points of interest (in Swedish, naturally!) and speculate on the fate of those who took refuge behind long-gone timber walls.

The hill is surrounded by woods: bare-limbed birch, oak, and ash; evergreen fir and pine. Toward the top, as the terrain becomes rockier, the trees thin out. Almost at the crest, Jess turns back to the lake. Red and yellow houses dot the landscape, many with yellow and blue pennants fluttering in the wind. To the west, mountains rise in the distance, grey ghosts draped in white. To the east, a bridge crosses the lake to Jess' birthplace: Östersund, hardly the oldest town in Sweden, but older than most communities in the US.

It's early yet, but the sun is already close to setting this far north. Lights appear in the windows of those red and yellow houses, electric candles offering warm welcome to cold travelers. Advent stars glow. Time to find a tree, she thinks. She looks to the top of the hill and there it is: a tall fir (well, tall to her, she's only 5 feet tall!), snow-laden branches hanging low.

She crosses the hilltop to the tree and clears the snow from its branches. The ground underneath is free of snow, but has a thick carpet of needles. Perfect for leaving gifts! Nearby boulders and stumps will offer places to rest cold behinds and even colder feet. Clearing snow, Jess finds a scorched ring of stones, a popular spot for a fire! She gathers what deadfall she can in the failing light. The fire is laid for the Yulelog.

Night descends and Jess waits for her friends to arrive to decorate the tree. The first stars, bright and clear, appear with the first guests...

...Meanwhile, back across the pond: Owl hitches a ride on the tractor as Will heads for the clearing. The light dusting of snow changes the look and feel of the Mountain, and the crisp, cold air tickles their noses. Hugging Will's back for warmth, and just to pick on him, Owl laughs when she is bounced around as the tractor works its way up the trail.

Finally, they reach the clearing, and they look critically at the pile of huge tree trunks lying there. Off to one side are smaller sections, already cut, and they decide on a 4 ft section of pine, which is approximately 16 inches in diameter.

Maneuvering the tractor, they pick up the log, and head back down the Mountain. This log has been aged for almost 2 years, so it will make an excellent Yule Log! Back at the pole shed, Will chops a channel lengthwise on the log. Owl takes dried wood chips, pine needles, and various dried herbs, packing them loosely into the cut. She then lays pine branches across the log, and anchors them with wooden spikes, pounded into the log. Apples, oranges, and berries are attached to the spikes, and nuts & berries more dried herbs are strewn across the pine branches.

The Yule Log is now ready to be brought to the Yule Ritual for lighting. Owl and Will transport the Log to the Island of Frösön, Sweden. There, as friends gather amidst the ruins, the Log is placed at the direction of Jess, our hostess, and she is given the long taper to light the log.

Jess lights the taper, watching the wick catch and brighten. The Log rests atop tinder in the center of the circle of stones, blackened from previous fires. Cupping the candle flame against errant breezes, she leans forward and touches flame to tinder. Twigs and paper curl with the flame, orange tongues lick the bark of the large, decorated Log. In a blink, the Log is aflame. The smoke carries the heady scent of orange, rosemary, bay, and sage.

"May this fire warm our hearts as it warms our bodies! The sun will rise tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow!"

Jess hugs Owl and Will, kissing them on windblown cheeks. "Thank you both!"

Hands are warmed over the fire. A kettle over the flames fills the air with the scent of glögg, a mulled and fortified wine. Some mittened hands clutch thermoses of hot cider and chocolate.

"Välkommen och God Jul!" Jess shouts, welcoming all to this Yule circle. Everyone gathers in a wide circle around the fir. "This place is old," says Jess. "What we do here tonight is even older. We celebrate the shortest night and the return of the sun. We celebrate the birth of the Lord and Lover. We remind ourselves that, even in the dark season of cold and death, warmth and life is still within reach: deep beneath the snow and always in our hearts."

"To this end, we will decorate this tree. We will hang it with light, color, and sound. We will put our hopes and requests in and under its branches. Now, as the sun has set, we start with light."

...astonished, yet invigorated by the cold air, suz walks to the tree and touches its thick fragrant branches. she sets a large basket down beside it. moonlight reflects from the glass of hundreds of small lanterns, open at the top, silver handled, set with tiny white candles. smiling at her friends, suz says "i could hang all these myself, but we would all be frozen solid before we got to the petitions..." fortunately for suz, everybody sets to cheerfully and soon the branches of the glorious fir send off moongleams from the tiny lanterns. suz stands back and surveys the result as the circle reforms... perfect.

"my friends, i am so glad and grateful to be able to share with you this night of endless cold and dark, of joyous return and rebirth, of the swing of the pendulum that brings the wheel another turn. as the mother labors, as the god returns to us, let us celebrate with light and warmth and love. as we will the sun to warm the earth, let the fires be lit! little friend, it is time."

from under suz's hood climbs a tiny form with a bronze and amethyst body, and opalescent wings, about the size (and disposition) of a large wasp. the dragonet sits on her shoulder for a moment regarding the circle, the tree, the moonlight. his eyes gleam with anticipation as he catches sight of the magnificent yule log. the gossamer wings begin to vibrate.

"gem... light the candles!" launching himself from suz's shoulder, the dragonet buzzes to the nearest lantern and alights on the rim. he balances, wings whirring like a hummingbird's, and emits a miniature gout of flame. the wick catches, the lantern begins to glow. puffing up with excitement and importance, gem flies from lantern to lantern until the fir glows like a beacon against the snowy forest. when his task is accomplished he perches atop suz's head, practically crooning with self satisfaction.

"thank you, little one. you did well." warm despite the shocking cold, suz steps back smiling into the circle...

...Nym' is captivated by the beauty around her... Taking a flute from her inside pocket, she begins to play a tune. A gentle breeze begins to blow as the notes of the song fills the air. A rainbow of birds charge the night sky - from the tiniest Arctic Warbler to Eleonora's Falcon they gather - Eurasian Blackbirds, Merlins, Turtle Doves and Laughing Ones - the graceful creatures of the air.

The birds settle into place on the tree as their voices blend with the melody of the flute forming a chorus of enchantment. As Nym' ends her tune she notes with a laugh as the Snowy Owl winks at Owl in a wise and knowing way. Returning to her place she looks skyward in hopes of seeing Aldsvider drawing his chariot across the sky...

...Trudging up the hill, in her full bodied parka, Tash is amazed at the fact that despite her deep dislike of cold weather, the scenery is so breathtaking that she hardly feels the bitter bite of the air around her. As she approaches the tree, all alight with hundreds of little lanterns, she feels her breath taken away.

A little body flits over her head, she looks around and smiles... "Ahh, Suz's little Dragonet... hello little one".

In her arms, Tash carries a big wicker basket. In that basket are strands upon strands of cranberries interwoven with tiny little bells. The soft tinkle of the bells can be heard with every step she takes... tink, tink, tink, tink...

The tree is aglow with light, and the Yule log is burning brightly, and the scent of orange, rosemary, bay, and sage reaches out and softly touches her senses. She smiles. Warmth spreads throughout her cold body as she places her basket at the foot of the tree.

Pulling out a few strands, Tash walks around and hands a few to each person. This is a big tree, and many hands are needed to add to this Holy celebration. The sound the little bells make is a happy one, and as they begin to be drapped on the branches of this beautiful child of the Earth, Tash begins... "Dear Mother, as You slumber through these long, cold days and nights, we thank You. We thank You for all You have given us, and all You continue to provide. We wish You a restful sleep, from which we hope You shall wake refreshed and rejuvenated. We pledge to continue our efforts to reduce the damage that is inflicted onto You by those who do not know You. We shall march forward united as one and fight for Your rights. Dear Mother, sleep well, rest well, as we wait to celebrate Your wakening."

The bells fully draped, Tash walks around the circle hugging each person there, and steps back, finds a comfy cold boulder to sit her cold behind on, and waits for...

...Smiling a "hello" to all her friends, Morgan steps forward from her place in the circle and approaches the Yule tree. She is dressed in warm light-colored clothing, but over it she wears a hooded cloak made of a sparkling silver material and a slim silver band set with a small moonstone encircles her brow. Stopping in front of the tree, she raises a shimmering, delicately made glass icicle and places it gently on one of the evergreen boughs.

Raising her face and arms to the brilliant moon, silver glitter sparkling on her face and eyelids and silver bracelets glinting on her wrists, she says, "Spirits of the element of water in all its forms but particularly its frozen aspect as healer and preserver, we request and invite your presence into our circle this night to witness and participate in our celebration of the last full moon of this year. In the names of all the native spirits of this land, join with us now!"

Bowing her head, Morgan retreats to her place in the circle and watches...

...as Windwalker walks to the top of the hill chosen by Jess for this FMR and stands and looks at the sights around her. She feels the cold, crisp air flowing in and out of her lungs. She can feel the energy of the area fill her with each breath. She stands bundled in a brown woolen cape and fur lined mittens, well prepared for the cold, Jess warned them about. Out of a deep pocket she withdraws a small figure. Working on this since she was told of her role: it is a small blond figure. The clothes sewn by hand are a soft white and carefully preserved and placed over it are small orange flowers. The Jamtland Nigritella or black vanilla orchid. The gown is flowing and each part lovingly covered in the flower of the country she came to celebrate in. Her head is covered in fine lace and the veil covers down her back and flows out and appears to be wings.

From the other pocket come two smaller figures. One Black and covered in leopard dress and the other oriental and covered in a silk kimono. Together the three ornaments represent Freya, Nordic mother of Life, Lyda the mother of the black nations according to Nordic tales and Finda mother of the yellow race of peoples. The last two dolls, even smaller than the rest, are dressed in earth tones, one has an overlay of evergreen needles and the other has small glass icicles dangling from her brown dress.

These will represent the Nordic earth mothers Fasta and Irtha. The Three Great Mothers are place in different parts of the tree so that they form a circle and the earth mothers are placed on the ground beneath. Windwalker then stands and raises her arms to the full moon and the blinding echoes she sees of her radiance on the snow-covered land and reflecting back from the lake. Windwalker stops, almost swearing she has seen the form of the Storjoodjuret sliding beneath the still waters. Shrugging and offering a wave of welcome to our water brethren she starts:

"Freya, Great Mother of this nation. Goddess of love, fertility, Battle and Death. You come to us in the start and end of life. You hold us in your palm through our troubles and joy. We welcome you to this special Yule Tree. We ask for your presence in this night of celebration. For your part in the creation of the new time that comes can not be denied. Here in the Land of your beginning we stand and offer our prayers to you and our hearts. For the joy of the season felt by all nations at this time increases our joy in you and the earth we live upon. Welcome."

With that Windwalker takes one final offering from her pocket, a small pink, glass ornament in the shape of a pig that she has taken from her own tree at home and places it on this sister tree. Smiling as she does so, for it still makes her wonder why so strange an animal was chosen by this Icelandic goddess to be favored first among all others. Then Windwalker steps back, hugs Jess for bringing her to such a beautiful setting and smiles to the others who are so familiar to her though she has never met them, and thinks "someday," then turns waiting for Reddeer...

...who - having come prepared for the cold in a heavy cloak of finely tanned deer leather still with the fur - enjoys the brisk climb. As their tree rings, tinkles, jingles with the breeze, Deer left his own bells home for the eve. He revels in the almost chamois feel of the pelt against his skin, feet and hands warm in their own deer hide coverings. And when the wind is overly brisk, he warms himself both from the amber about his neck and from the dancing heat of the Yule log. Upon his head, over the cowl of his cloak, six-tined antler seemingly sprout - but are, in reality, set upon a light helmet concealed beneath the robe.

And upon his back, Deer carries a large rucksack, packed to the brim for their celebration. Myrlen can hardly contain herself - bouncing, yipping and careening into other revelers in more snow than she's ever dreamed possible. Yet she, too senses the gravity of the impending observance, and quiets quickly as the appointed time draws near.

Deer first approaches the burning Yule log, smudging himself and Myrlen with its deliciously scented smoke. Having greeted and exchanged hugs with those gathered, he approaches the tree so beautifully appointed. "There can be no more beautiful a Yule tree beside or beneath the gleaming towers of Alfheim," Deer thinks, settling his sack near the tree. First, Deer takes out a fist-sized chunk of raw amber - rough on the outside, but with that unmistakable glow in its heart which catches and amplifies the energies of sun, fire and tree - and places it upon the ground with the figures of Irtha and Fasta. Next he removes a small but gorgeously wrought chariot in the harness of which stands a golden boar - spirit kin if not physical to that placed by Windwalker upon the tree. Those looking closely at the chariot might note that although its seat seems empty, a notable golden glow emanates from a tiny bead of carved amber there. And longer inspection often produces the distinct image of the Sun God Himself, in whatever form He might appear to the one observing. The chariot is followed by a beautiful replica (or is it?) of a Norse ship - dragon-headed prow raised almost high as the red and white striped sail, with a similar bead of amber beneath the mast. Then out comes a diminutive sword and shield, both of such intricate workmanship as to be the envy of any warrior who might hold them in the true size. Each of these Deer hangs in a circle about the Yule tree, much as Windwalker had done with the Mother figures.

Deer and Myrlen, side by side, stand for a lengthy time before the tree - Myrlen communing with spirits known only to herself, and Deer with the merlin perched upon a lower bough. Finally, Deer again picks up his seemingly empty rucksack and holds it before him.

"Freyr, Lord of the World, High King in the third level of the ninth world... You who bring both sunlight and rain... You who are both poet and warrior... Join Your Sister with us in the heart of Yule. We invite Your presence in the culmination of Winter's darkness, in the decoration of our Yule tree and in the revelation of so many joyous hearts gathered." And as Deer lowers his gaze, a brilliant light emerges from the open rucksack - now seeming to inflate with its warmth.

Deer removes his hands, and the rucksack opens of its own accord, and impossibly slowly begins to fall towards the bed of needles below. Few eyes are upon it, however, for all focus upon the tessellated light sculpture which hovers in the air before them - an six-pointed star which seems to capture all the light from the full moon, the burning Yule log and the eyes of the celebrants gathered about only to resonat with them and return them brighter than they were before. Almost silently, the Merlin with whom Deer had held congress wings down from its bough and takes the glimmering snowflake - now fully a broad as the beautiful bird's own wingspan - gently to a perch upon the Yule tree's crown. Deer gasps at the sight of it - having known that the magic of this evening and this place would render a spectacular outcome, but not having dared to dream that all could be so perfectly beautiful as this tree, their gift to the long nights of Winter and their reminder that the sun would grow warm in Spring. "Welcome, Lord of the Aesir."

Myrlen - never one for silent observances - sets to barking at the merlin, who swoops thrice about her head before returning to his bough, and then bounds up to her Deer. Knocking him headlong into a snow bank, the little dog proceeds to thoroughly bathe his face before letting him up to rejoin the group. Then, Deer and Myrlen both wait with shivering anticipation for weet's gifts to the Tomtes...

...Weet breaths deep of the cold, crisp air, then slowly leaves the circle and approachs the tree. From the folds of her cloak she removes smooth stones with hollows in them. Quietly she places these stones around the tree and fills them with dark blackberry wine. Then next to each bowl she places pieces of dark bread smeared with honey. Stepping back from the tree slightly, Weet opens her arms and calls to the Tomtes.

"Wild ones, spirits of the forest and wood, spirits of the rock and the water, cousins to the Leshy and Rusalki from my grandmother's land. I bring you these gifts so that you may celebrate with us this joyous solstice. May your lives be as blessed as ours have been and may we live in harmony together, Tomte and human."

Weet then reachs under her cloak again and places a small piece of carved amber next to the other figures. It is carved in the shape of a woman on horseback. By the feet of the horse prance two hounds, lithe and strong. "Oh Diezwana, goddess of the wild things and of the hunt. I call to you this night to lay down your arrows and to give protection to the wild spirits of this land. Let no harm come to them and allow them to share the abudence that these woods may offer." Weet then slowly walks around the tree three times. The first she drops seed, the second she drops nuts and the third she places small pieces of rock salt. Facing the tree she once again spreads her arms and calls out.

"I have placed gifts about you. Seed for the birds, nuts for the small animals and rock salt for those in need during these frozen times." Dropping her arms, Weet turns slowly back to rejoin the circle..

...Jess is flushed: Is it the wine? The fire? Or the energy her friends have raised on this hilltop? Who cares?! Either way, she can't keep still. She wants to dance and jump and hug and kiss!!!

*whew* Ok, back to the circle!!!

"Welcome all, seen and unseen, to this circle. At this time of the full moon, let us come forward in perfect love and perfect trust and make our requests and our thanks before this wonderful tree!"

Bells tinkle as the birds flutter and shift among the fir's branches. The Yule fire continues to crackle merrily as the first seeker steps forward...

...Boudica approaches the circle. From her shoulder an owl takes flight to a nearby tree to settle on a branch above the circle. Beside her is Bear, half german shepherd, half collie. Though still a pup, he walks beside his mistress, looking at all the people in the circle. Boudica walks around the circle, greeting her friends. It's been a while since she has been here, and this is a perfect place to hold Yule.

The dark blue dress looks almost black till she reaches the fire, when the small starts on the dress sparkle in the firelight. She smiles at all around. Walking up to the tree, she puts her handout, and Bear remains behind.

She looks at the tree, and remembers the old Norse deities. What would please them the most? "Ahhhhh..." and from a pack on her shoulder she pulls a horn, and a bottle and leaves them beneath the tree. An offering fit the great Norse Gods and Goddesses. Then, from the same bag... she finds a little light, a small sparkling glowing ornament. This is Winter Solstice, a turn of the seasons. This ornament represents the Sun, who begins His return this evening. She places the small glowing ornament on the tree. She bows... and turns.

The Bear returns to her side and the owl hoots from the branch above the circle, and she walks to her place in the circle to await...

...Journeywoman, wonders how she will make it to the the top of the small hill... but she struggles on rugged in a black wool cloak, her left hand clutches tightly the collar of Sam the black panther who patiently aids her the seemingly long walk... carefully following the footsteps of those gone on ahead.

JourneyWoman is determined to make it to the fire... broken leg and hand... and thanks the chill of the snow... which numbs the limbs, so the pain passes unnoticed... At Last... she smiles with the acheivement, and smiles at all in the circle. Slowly she limps with Sam's aid to the fire and pulls from her belt bag a packet of incense made in the small tropical island of Bali... all natural incense made from the beautiful Melati flower, also known as star jasmine. Lighting several sticks she places them in the ground at the base of the fire and allows the heady and uplifting perfume to wash over her and the greater circle. It is then she turns, still requiring Sam the black panther's aid, and approaches the tree... She whispers a heartfelt "Thank you," to the Norse Gods and Goddesses, who have given her the strength to make it to the top.

JourneyWoman, asks that her broken limbs will mend without problems, as it is just too difficult to manage without strong limbs. She asks for blessings to be bestowed on those who are also suffering such trauma's this night... but... She gives thanks for the many blessings she has in her life. From the belt bag at her waist she digs down and pulls a silver ball that catches the fire light and glints enticingly like a sparkling Moon. She also brings forth Grains of Rice... gifts of life from the tropical Island of Bali, and a bottle of the warming wine made from the rice grains. She is uncertain of the value of these gifts to the Norse deities, and hopes they will be accepted, She waits, with head bowed and feels Sam patiently at her side... then the fire seems to glow brighter and the warm glow surrounds her and all in the circle. Journeywoman lets out her unnoticed held breathe, smiles and steps back into the circle... all is well, the gifts have been accepted... now she can relax a little and so she waits...

...Jess looks at the tree in wonder! So much love and hope and power in one place! She pulls from her coat pocket a stained glass eighth-note.

"Thank you for keeping me in fine voice this weekend," she says to the note as she hangs it on a lower limb. "And please help me to be safe and healthy through the next couple of months. We all have somewhere to go in the near future, may we arrive happy and whole and be welcomed by our hosts with open arms and open hearths."

Stepping back to the warm fire, Jess watches the next petitioners approach the tree...

...Storme slowly approaches the tree. In the light of the many candles she can see her breath forming in the crisp, cold air. She revels in the clean fresh feeling. As she reaches the tree, she digs deep in her pocket and reaching as high as she can on the tree she hangs two ornaments, brought from her home. The first is a silver pig (she is so pleased to learn the pig was favoured by Freya, as to her it has always been the symbol of Cerridwen) to represent the Lady and the second is a glass reindeer with silver antlers to represent the winter king. She smiles and from her backpack unloads a bottle of single malt and a round object wrapped in muslin. Coming from Scotland she knows how welcome a dram and a slice of clootie dumpling can be on a cold night.

"Lady and Lord, I thank you. This time last year life was extremely difficult and there were many hard lessons to be learned. I have done my best to learn what life was teaching me and I thank you truly for the fact that all my petitions were answered. This year I can await the rebirth of the Sun with nothing but joy in my heart and for this I give thee thanks. So Mother Goddess, Father God, fill me with your peace and love tonight. Let me see you in all that is, was, and ever will be. Let me feel your presence within me. Let me feel my presence within you. Let me remember you always. I thank you for sharing my life."

Feeling overcome with emotion, Storme steps back to await the next petitioner...

...Morgan approaches the tree once more and hangs a small quartz crystal suspended on a nylon thread on one of the boughs. This is a miniature replica of a larger one given to her when she was a child by her paternal grandmother, who was of Swedish ancestry. Though she passed many years ago, Morgan can feel her sweet spirit watching over the proceedings.

She raises her face to the glowing moon and says, "Blessed Lady, Beloved Lord, I come here to thank you for the many blessings you have bestowed upon me and mine this year and do humbly ask for these to continue in 2001."

"Please, Lady and Lord, keep my family safe and well, and if it be Your will, I beg that you help me succeed in attaining my most cherished yet thus far elusive goal - justice - in the following year."

Morgan takes a long look at the beautifully decorated tree and a feeling of peace fills her. She smiles and returns to her place in the circle...

...Nancy takes a deep breath and thinks of all the many, many things she's done for the first time over the past ten years. "Stepping forward in this circle of friends can't be as difficult as standing in front of a roomful of strangers, can it? Nothing will ever be as humbling," she thinks, "as seeing myself on television." Slowly releasing her breath, she waits for a pause, and steps forward to make her first petition.

Stalling for time, hoping for the inspiration of some suitably eloquent phrase, she pulls out a small owl ornament, her personal symbol for many years, and a hinge, symbol of her "patron Goddess," and hangs them together on an empty branch. "Lord and Lady, You've led me down a very interesting and fulfilling path. I'll admit I wasn't always willing, and some of Your nudges had to be a bit more forceful than I would have liked, but I've learned that I'm capable of far more than I would have dreamed possible. Without Your guidance and some well-placed boosts from other people, some of whom are in our circle tonight, I would never have imagined being what I am and where I am now. But this next step still seems a bit daunting. So I ask for Your continued support and guidance as I do what I know needs to be done."

Pausing a moment to admire the strength and beauty of the tree, Nancy returns to the circle wrapped in her own thoughts...

...Sunspider approaches the tree to place a small dolphin ornament amid the many other decorations. She thinks of the many things she has to be thankful for, the gifts she's been given in the last few months... smiles... then remembers the battles she must face in only a few days. " Lady, Lord, just let my thoughts be clear and quick, my voice and heart be strong and steady." She sees the shadow of a lion standing beside her, and feels the gentle nudge of a doe letting her know she will never walk alone...

She remembers something else a friend has asked for her to bring. She reaches into her pocket and pulls out a small red, orange, and yellow bundle and places it among the branches. "Give him all he needs and more, so mote it be..." She bows her head in thanks, then turns to take her place in the circle...

...and Deer, from his place among the circle of friends, surveys the beauty they with nature have wrought. He, too, is awed by the energy they have all brought to and from this place. Deer looks upward to the moon shining brilliantly down. "Mother, as always with thanks and needs I come. Gratitude for all that I am, all that I have. And a request to fill that which is empty. As is Your will..."

Deer bends down to frisk the ears of the little Aussie waiting patiently at his side, then watches as...

...Owl steps quietly to the burning Yule Log and adds some very special herbs to the flames. From her cloak she takes a bound stack of oak leaves... still fresh in green... they had been gathered in the summer, and placed in the freezer. From the pouch at her waist, come two sprigs of holly... one glistening in the fire light, rich and green... the other laden with bright red berries. She tosses the Oak leaves into the fire, the approaches the tree in all it's finery. Twisting the sprigs together, and weaving a piece of white yarn to bind them both... Owl asks for the joining together of friends and family. As the Holly bouquet is added to the tree, Owl gives thanks for the bonds of friendship weaving all here together...

Then... a shrill whistle, and a streak of black & white energy bounds to her side. Owl bends down and grasps the collar of her new friend... and grins into the bright blue eyes shining out of the masked face of Nelleh... (4 month old Siberian husky) "It's time our furry friends met too," she grins.

Owl steps back to stand by Reddeer and his Aussie friend Myrlen, and waits...

..."There! There they are, Isa! Oh damn, I'm late again... get me down there fast, buddy!"

The great white winged horse circled the sparkling tree and the blaze of the yule log far below. The full moon lit a path of light to the gathered friends below, and the winged horse snorted as he started to descend. His breath turned to jets of steam in the moonlight and the small, fur-cloaked figure on his back laughed wishfully as she pictured herself clambering up his neck to warm her frozen hands in those twin plumes of his steamy breath.

Down, down, down, the white horse spiraled, until, with just a gentle thump, his hooves sent up little avalanches of snow as he settled earthbound into the white cover. He folded his great wings and lowered his head so his rider could slip off.

"Thank you, Isa." She kissed his nose and was warmed by another blast of his steamy breath. "Wait for me."

Gathering her thick fur-lined cloaks tightly around her, she made her way through the snow to the gathered circle of friends around the sparkling tree.

Beth noted that Suz saw her first and smiled broadly, silently mouthing the words: "About time, Beth...!!" The skyrider grinned back and rolled her eyes ruefully. "I'm sorry... goddess time... but I'm so glad I'm here!" she whispered as she wrinkled her nose.

Beth quietly made her way through the circle and stepped forward, slowly approaching the beautiful tree. She glanced around her, took a deep breath, and pushed her hood back so her dark hair fell loose around her shoulders and her cold, rosy-cheeked face was lit by the glow of the tree in front of her. Her blue eyes sparked mischievously as she looked around the circle of friends.

"Although I have been far up there," she gestured with her head upwards to the moonlit black winter sky, "I watched you all adorn this magickal tree and have been listening to your beautiful words of blessings and thanks to your gods and the goddesses tonight."

"There is nothing I could say that could improve upon the honor and respect and love you wonderfully bestow upon them, so I am here tonight to do something else, instead." Beth paused and took another deep breath, watching her own plume of steam disappear into the cold night air.

She saw the amused look that passed between Suz and Nym and smiled as Tash leaned over and whispered something to Dream Dancer which caused his handsome face to break into a big grin. They were all waiting.

"You opened your arms and your hearts to me and welcomed me into your family." Beth stopped momentarily, searching for the right words. "I have never experienced a group of people like you before. The journey my life has taken has always been full of joy and discovery, but has also been intensely personal. I'm only realizing now what it's like to have bonds of friendship like this," she gestured to the circle of glowing faces around the tree.

Beth reached into the recesses of the fur of her thickly layered cloak. "My gift tonight is a gift of thanks to all of you from my heart and with my love," she said with a smile that lit her eyes. She drew out of her cloaks a silvery pouch that seemed to move restlessly in her hands.

Gem, the little dragonet, let out a burst of surpised bluish flame from his perch on Suz's head and stared suspiciously at the vibrating silver bag in Beth's hands. "Shhhhhh, little one, " Suz gently soothed it. "It's okay... I think!"

Beth gently pulled the drawstrings open and threw back her head in laughter. "From my heart to all of yours!" Holding the bag aloft, she stepped back and threw it up into the cold night air.

It was as if a thousand tiny silver fireworks suddenly exploded above the group's heads. They were yule runes! Tiny, sparkly, made of vapor and moonlight, a pinch of the evergreen needles, cold Yule air and rune-goddess magick... and very, very much alive!

Like little homing beacons, they started to change color and hum and dance as they locked onto their recipients. Arcing through the air like so many tiny, magickal shooting stars, the yule runes left sparkler-like traces in the darkness as they shot out into the people gathered around the tree.

Whoosh! A wee, glowing, dark green Uruz arced into Suz, bathing her for a moment in its earthy green light. Gem squealed indignantly and dove for it, but wasn't fast enough. The tiny yule rune disappeared into Suz almost before she could think to react. "Oh Beth!" she gasped, "it's sooooo warm! It's... the strength... in my heart... the confidence... of who I am and who I'm becoming!"

Whoosh! A tiny, sparkling deep red Mannaz flew into Nymue, who gasped in surprise, then cried out in delight. "For my circle... for the people in my heart... and for Bob!" she said in sudden understanding.

Whoosh! Two runes this time, intertwined, the dark blue Ansuz and the silvery gold Sowulo, shot across the darkness into Tash, filling her heart with sudden understanding of the warmth that her sunny nature and smiling wit brought others.

Whoosh! A brilliantly white Ehwaz, so bright it made her close her eyes momentarily, disappeared into Jess, and filled her heart with the joy that her journey through the worlds of Yggdrasil and her growth and change brought her.

Whoosh! Dagaz this time, sparkling light blue, shot into Dream Dancer while he was still distracted by Tash's runes. His skin tingled as his heart glowed in the warmth of the dawn of a new day and all it promised for him.

Whoosh! Another deep red Mannaz, this time entwined with a diamond white Ehwaz, sparkling in the guise of the leader; the wise teacher, and the bond linking her with not only her group, but so completely with Abe, buried itself deeply in Rosemary's heart. She smiled as it's warmth glowed within her.

Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Again and again the little yule runes found their mark. Again and again, they brought home warm reminders of joy and importance to the hearts of each of the people in this night's gathering.

"My love and thanks to you, dear friends, now and forever," Beth whispered as she shut her eyes and turned her face up to the moon. "My love and thanks to all that is and all that will be, this Yule and all Yules."

She pulled her cloak's furry hood back up over her head and began to walk back towards the others. She spoke silently to Isa, who lifted his beautiful head and stretched his white wings in preparation for their long journey home.

Suddenly, the last three tiny yule runes, each a perfect sparkling dark green Berkana, shot out from behind the tree and landed in the palm of her left hand. She looked down, and broke out in delighted laughter.

"My beacons to guide me, I see..."

With the Berkana yule runes glowing in her hand, Beth turned and took one more look at the beautiful tree before she slipped back through the circle and into the darkness beyond where the great winged horse awaited her.

"Happy Yule, dear friends!" she called, and with a sigh and a snort and the beat of great white wings, they lifted off into the darkness and were gone...

...laughing with sheer delight at the warmth of uruz blazing within her, suz waves at beth and the magnificent isa as they wing their way up into the jewel-studded sky.

an energy and vitality that have been notably lacking of late buoy her up as she steps back inside the circle and approaches the great tree. she takes a cut glass flagon of wine, warmed and mulled with fragrant spices, from within her cloak and lays it gently beneath the tree. 'for all that i have been granted, for blessings bright and dark, i thank you, my beloved mother and my glorious father.'

she produces an apple saved from the autumn harvest of her orchard. it is wrinkled, but firm and sweet. a bindrune is carved carefully into the skin. it combines berkana, raido, wunjo, laguz and eihwaz. "as i start the new adventure of home-schooling my older son, i ask for your help and guidance. I will need patience beyond what i have yet been able to muster. i will need inspiration to find what keys unlock the love of learning within him and transform it from drudgery to joy. i will need organization... boy, will i need help with that. i will need leadership to keep us focused and moving forward and exploring new and exciting realms. i will need energy to keep from lapsing into doubt and apathy. thank you for giving me the boot in the butt i needed to attempt this." she hangs the apple from a silver ribbon onto a welcoming branch. quietly she removes a shining braid from a deep inner pocket. it is woven of chestnut horsehair, and silver and royal blue ribbon. "thank you for the gift of april." the encircled plait is also hung on the tree. pinpricks from tiny claws dig into suz's scalp through her hood as she steps smiling back into the circle to await...

...EarthChild trudges up the hill. "No dress for this FMR," she thinks, "it's way to cold for that!" She hopes that no one takes her informal attire as disrespectful - black cotton jeans, sturdy black hiking shoes/boots, and a burgundy sweater over a black turtleneck. Not that anybody can see it under her heavy coat, purple backpack (with winnie the pooh on the front), and a well swaddled bundle in a carrier on her front.

"Oh Gods and Goddesses, I think I'm going to be late." She picks up the pace and tries to watch where she's going. On one of the moments that she takes a breather, looks around with wonder. She can feel the magick of this wonderful place. She looks down, assuring herself that what she carries in the carrier is secure and warm, and then starts back up. Soon she see's a warm inviting glow ahead. "ahhh..."

She walks up and is glad to feel her welcome. She can also feel the curious looks at the things she has strapped to her person. After a brief "Hello", EarthChild steps up to the tree.

She wiggles out of the backpack and sets it down. Rummaging through it, she pulls out a bottle. "No. Not that." Then another blanket comes out. A small, pink blanket. In frustration, EarthChild huffs, "No. Not that either. Where is it?" A look of contentment crosses her face, "Ah-HAH! Now that's what I wanted."

Upon saying that, she pulls out a small wrapped package. She carefully unwraps it. EarthChild finally pulls out an ornament. It is a butterfly. The shape is created with gold wiring and filled with mother-of-pearl coated metal. It catches the light from the fire and it glows and sparkles, almost with a inner light of it's own. She adds it to the beautiful collection of ornaments already on the tree.

Then she steps back, fumbles with the straps on the carrier, and eventually a baby emerges from beneath all the blankets. The baby's sweet, little face lights up upon seeing all these people. She smiles and begins to coo and babble. She's a big girl, with dark curly hair and green eyes. Her ears almost come to a point and make her look almost like a chubby, small, elf.

EarthChild looks at her daughter, smiles, and then speaks. "I have been late in introducing my daughter to the Gods and Goddesses. She is now just over four months. Somehow, though, this just felt like it was the time. May the Gods and Goddesses welcome and greet my youngest daughter, Emily. May they grant her protection and bless her until she is of an age to choose her dieties for herself."

EarthChild feels the warmth of the people and Presences around her. She continues... "I have one other request this month. Emily's father is in need of healing. The past year has been a rough one in general, and he's dealt with many physical illnesses and ailments. For the past almost two weeks, he has been trying to cope with a bad migraine that has not let up. It is wearing on him body and soul. Please, bring healing to him that he may be well again and not have anymore pain. Please bring his migraine to an end and help him recover."

Under the tree she leaves an apple, a mango, and a stick of her favorite incense. She can feel the curious fae flit about her daughter as she bundles her back up, as...

...Harmony steps quietly from the circle. Speechless with awe at the beauty of the people, the tree and the scenery. "The purity of the love here astounds me. I generally hate winter, for my body does not love the cold; yet this scene is incredible and the warmth of the people, the warmth of the circle warm my joints and body."

Harmony pulls a Dagaz Rune Etched into Blue Topaz that shines like the evening star of her Patron Goddess. "I thank you Lord and Lady for the lessons of Balance I've been learning this past year, difficult as the lessons have been. I thank you for my name and aspiration, Harmony. For the New Year, I seek health and energy. With health, I will have the energy to tap into potential that has yet to be tapped. I seek peace and balance in the lives of my loved ones, my chosen family." Harmony hangs the delicate, yet strong ornament on the glistening tree and quietly steps back into the circle; glowing in the love and caring of the people surrounding her, as...

...Raven steps out of the circle where she had be standing quietly listening to every one. She drops to her knees and lifts her hands to the sky. "Lord and Lady I would like to thank you for the blessings I have recived. I would like to ask you to please let my love for the new man in my life not be in vain. Please allow me to be strong when and if this new love leaves me. I would like for this love to continue. I would like to Thank you Lady and Lord for what I have right now Thank you so much." Tears trickle down from Raven's eyes as she tilts her head to the sky in a silent thank you. From the pouch around her neck she removes a small hand made dream catcher and kisses it and the stands up and gently puts it on the alter and walks back into her silent spot in the circle to wait for the next petitioner...

...The tree is now full of light and color. The wind off the lake sets the bells to tinkling. The Yule Log is blazing. Faces around the circle glow, whether from the fire's light or their own inner wonder.

"Friends," says Jess, "Join hands (or mittens!). There is a traditional song, I think most of us know it. It expresses the joy of sharing this season. And while the original sings of the Christian holiday, it works just as well for us here at Yule. In the spirit of Dr. Seuss, join in if you know it, hum if you don't!"

"Fah who foraze! Dah who doraze! Welcome Yuletime, come this way! Fah who foraze! Dah who doraze! Welcome Winter Solstice Day!"

Smiles spread on rosy faces as guests remember the melody. Arms swing gently in the firelight.

"Welcome, welcome! Fah who rahmus! Welcome, welcome! Dah who dahmus Yuletide joy is in our grasp! So long as we have hands to clasp!"

A few daring souls add harmony to the 35-year-old tune. One rumbling bass grounds the voices while the high melody arcs above. The circle of joined hands moves deosil.

"Fah who foraze! Dah who doraze! Welcome Sun and bring your cheer Fah who foraze! Dah who doraze! Welcome all who's far and near."

"Fah who foraze! Dah who doraze! Welcome Goddess, come this way! Fah who foraze! Dah who doraze! Welcome Winter Solstice Day!"

Bells on legs and staff chink with each step in time to the song. Cold limbs warm in the movement.

"Welcome, Solstice! Fah who rahmus! Welcome, Solstice! Dah who dahmus Yuletide joy will always be Just as long as we have we."

"Fah who foraze! Dah who doraze! Welcome Sun and bring your cheer Fah who foraze! Dah who doraze! Welcome all who's far and near!"

The circle rings with a joyful noise. Voices lifted in song echo over the hilltop. As the song ends, people laugh, clap, and hug each other.

"Friends, our circle is almost at an end. The Moon has passed her zenith and heads over the mountains. Please join hands once again."

"Spirits of Earth, Air, Fire, Water! Thank you for joining us this night. Stay if you will, go if you must! Hail and Farewell!"

"Tomtes, please take these gifts we leave and thank you for joining us this night. Stay if you will, go if you must. Hail and Farewell!"

"Lord and Lady! Thank you for joining us this night. Thank you for hearing our petitions. Thank you for your light and your warmth. Stay if you will, go if you must! Hail and Farewell!"

"Look at the joy in each others faces! As cold as it is, we are warm. As dark as it is, we glow. Take this love, this connectedness, back to your homes, your workplaces, the classroom, where ever you go in the world. Know that we are with you and 'they' are with you, always. Merry meet, merry part, and merry meet again!"

The circle opens with muffled applause. People gather closer to the fire, sharing wine, cocoa, and cookies. Farewells and good byes are heard through the crowd as members depart for far off places. Long after the Moon has set, the last travelers leave the hilltop, taking a taper lit from the Yule Log with them. This will burn to herald the rising Sun and the lengthening of days toward Imbolc.

Jess is left before the tree. What a wonderful gift her friends have shared! At Twelfth Night, she will return to remove the ornaments which will not degrade. The rest will be left to the wood and its denizens: pine cones, nuts and fruits, paper animals, cookie ornaments, food left beneath the tree. These will feed the creatures and line their nests through the long, cold winter. Little flakes drift down and land on Jess' upturned face. Perfect timing, she thinks, the last bit of decoration for the tree! The fire has died to the lowest embers. These she spreads out, covering with snow. Flakes are falling heavier now, snuffing the last of the Yule log. The air is not as cold, with the snow falling, but it's long past time to leave. Jess takes one more look around. Perfect, she thinks again. This was perfect.