Turkey Tracks: Winter Solstice

Turkey Tracks:  December 23, 2010

Winter Solstice

Winter Solstice was last Tuesday, December 21st.

The solstice is the longest night of the year.  After solstice, light begins flooding back into the world, albeit bit by bit.   But, before long, we will look at one another and say “the days are getting longer again.”  Right now, it’s dusky dark by 4 p.m.

I don’t mind the dark.  I find this time of year restful, reflective, tranquil, and filled with white, actually.  We have white snow, gorgeous big moons and moonlight, the stars form an impressive canopy in the sharp winter air, and the light now, with the sun low in the sky, is amazing.  It’s beautiful here, and that’s without the smell of evergreens, red berries glowing alongside the road, and the lakes freezing over.  It’s the best time of the year for the hot tub too, especially with the Milky Way so visible. 

Solstice is a fun night for us since for some years now we’ve gone to Margaret and Ronald’s house for a big bonfire.  This solstice was no exception, and Ronald had just lit the bonfire when we arrived at 4:30, despite spitting rain.

Here’s a picture of Ronald on the left, another guest in the middle, and John on the right:

Inside, candles are the only light.  One feels as if one has stepped back into time.  Margaret serves nuts, dried fruits, and some cooked winter squash, hot chocolate, cider, and her father’s famous Tom and Jerry’s.  The T&J’s are a heavenly mix of meringue, nutmeg, and liquor.  I look forward to having two small cups every year.  They warm the tummy and the heart and make you want to leave the inside fire and go outside and throw your “intentions” in the fire.  Here’s how Margaret sets up her “intentions” table:

 Pine is for the past.  You wrap pine into a paper note you’ve written on–hopefully about letting go of something troubling–tie it with string, and throw it into the fire, where you watch it burn.  Holly is for the future, so you make one of those dedicated to something about your future.  You can make as many of each as you wish, and Margaret encourages you to do so.  There is something magical about intentionally letting go of something.  And, of bringing something wonderful into your future.

Thanks you Ronald and Margaret for making this special time happen for us each year!