Yule's on its way!

I seem to be surrounded in life by quite a few moaners - not necessarily pagan people I add. They can't stand the dark nights, they are cold, they don't like the dark mornings, they hate the run up to Christmas. I have to wonder what these kind of people do look forward to. I don't believe that there are 'winter' people and 'summer' people, though I absolutely hate the heat and much prefer autumn and winter. I think as a pagan, I know that we are on an ever turning wheel. As soon as Lammas arrives, I know that we are on a downward spiral towards darker times.

I read an article recently that describes the period between Lammas and Imbolc as a time of misrule - the dark nights mean a time of womblike quiet and reflection. I kind of like that! I'm off to the Stonewylde rally again in May where we're all organising a big craft fair with plenty of stalls for homemade wares. I love the idea of us all crocheting, sewing and making in the cosy winter evenings ready to bring out our wares in the spring and summer. Why should we mourn the loss of the sun and it's light and warmth? We have so much time now to snuggle inside, be with our families and take up our hobbies and crafts.

I'm currently torn between the consumerism of my very traditional (Cof E) family and my pagan life. For my family, I buy the usual cards, wrapping paper and gifts or vouchers. I think if I didn't my mother especially would be a little disappointed and offended. She always prefers a bought card over handmade, I'm afraid! However, my pagan pals are going to receive a whole host of gifts, details to follow!