Last week I talked about attending the first Pittsburgh Frocktails party. Now I’ve got pics! I never got very good pictures of my “fish dress” when I made it, so it finally gets a moment in the sun. The photographer is @photo_by_kitoko. I definitely recommend checking out her work.
Being out with so many people felt very strange, even though it was a vaccinated-only event. We all signed up for the calculated risk, and I’ve been careful to wear a mask in public spaces since. It was so nice to see my sewing friends again after a couple of years. I’m hoping next year will be better and we can have more events, especially outside ones.
I love to celebrate the solstices. They represent the change in the seasons and the daylight. This Tuesday the 21st is the Winter Solstice. It’s the shortest day of the year, which means the following day begins the slow return of sunlight.
To celebrate, I’m making a Yule log! Traditionally, a Yule log is adorned with pine boughs, cinnamon, and wishes; then it is burned in a fireplace. My Scottish ancestors used them to banish evil spirits and bring luck for the new year. I’ve never made a Yule log before; it’s exciting to connect with an ancient celebration related to my own heritage.
There are many ways to make a Yule log, and you don’t necessarily have to burn it. I do have a fireplace, but it needs some work before I can burn logs in it. So I will celebrate by burning candles on and around my log, carefully setting our written wishes alight, then burying it in the Earth.
Do you celebrate the solstice? I’d love to hear about your traditions!
Thanks for reading <3
