Festive Yule Nog
4 cups milk
4 cups store bought egg nog
2 eggs
1 tbl spoon cinnamon
1 cup good quality rum
Mix eggs till they are completely blended and add cinnamon. In a separate bowl add together the store bought egg nog,
milk, and rum. Mix with large whisk for approx. 1-2 min. Add the egg and cinnamon mixture and beat all together with whisk
for an additional 1-2 min. Chill in fridge for a minimum of 2 hours.
Take car keys from those whom are driving and serve with a sprig of pine.
 | A short history of Yule | |
| Letter from the editor | |
| Yule ornaments | |
| Setting up a yule alter | |
| Festive Yule Recipes | |
| Party Drinks | |
| Winter Yard Care | |
| Imbolc Ritual | |
| Winter Beauty Tips | |
| Choosing the right | |
| books |
Salt Dough Ornaments
Roll out salt dough, cut shapes with cookie cutters, and bake until hard. Then you can paint your own designs on the
ornaments Salt dough is one of the easiest things in the world to make, and you can create just about anything from it. Use
it with cookie cutters to make your own Sabbat ornaments.
You need the following
• 4 Cups flour
• 1 Cup salt
• 1 ½ Cups hot water
• 1 tsp vegetable oil
Combine the salt and flour, then add the water until the dough becomes elastic. Add the oil at this time and knead the
dough (if it's too sticky, add more flour). Once it's a good consistency, make your decorations with cookie cutters. Bake
ornaments at 200* until hard (about 20 - 30 minutes). Once they've cooled, paint them with designs and symbols, and seal
with clear varnish.
If you're planning to hang them, poke a hole through the ornament BEFORE baking them.
Scented Pine Cones
Scented pine cones are a beautiful - - and fragrant - - addition to your Yule decorations.
If you want to keep an earth-friendly theme to your Yule decorating, one way to do so is to use the elements found in
nature as part of your decor. Simple things such as seeds, acorns, feathers, and other found items are easy to make into
ornaments and other decorations. For this simple project,
You'll need the following
• Pine cones, of any shape or size
• Equal amounts ginger, nutmeg and allspice, blended
• A 1:1 mixture of water and craft glue
• Glitter
• Ribbon
• A small paintbrush
To prepare the pine cones, rinse them under running water and then spread them out on a baking sheet. Bake at 250 for
about 20 minutes -- this will make them open up, and also get rid of any trace amounts of bacteria that might remain on
them. Don't worry if there's sap on them - it will harden into a shiny glaze and look pretty.
Once the pine cones have cooled, use the small paintbrush to apply the glue to the cones (I'd recommend spreading out
some newspaper ahead of time). You can either cover the entire cone, or just the outer tips of the petals.
Add the spices and glitter to a zip-loc bag. Drop the pine cones in, and shake until coated with spices and glitter.
Allow to dry thoroughly, and then tie a ribbon around the end so you can hang it up. Add a few springs of greenery if you
like. Use it on a holiday tree, or place them in a bowl to scent your room.
Make a Pipe cleaner Pentacle
Herbal Sachet
These simple sachets are easy to make, and you can either use them as ornaments on your holiday tree, or give them
away as gifts.
You'll need the following
• Bay
• Cloves
• Juniper berries
• Orange peel, grated
• Orris root
• Peppermint
• Pine
• Rosemary
• Squares of your favorite holiday fabric
• Colorful ribbon
• Cinnamon sticks
• Small bells
Mix the herbs together in a bowl. Blend varying proportions of each until you've got the scent you want -- here's a hint: start
small!
Use a spoon to place the blended herbs into the center of a square of fabric. Pull the corners up and tie with the ribbon. Tie
a cinnamon stick and a couple of bells in place as well. Use a second piece of ribbon to create a loop so you can hang the
sachet if you like.
Time saver tip: you can buy small tulle bags in holiday colors and spoon the herb blend into them. Pull the drawstring
closed and tie shut, then hang up on your tree, or give them to a friend.
Yule Simmering Potpourri
You can bring the scents of the Yule season into your home by blending up your own batch of potpourri. Keep it in a Mason
jar so it will stay fresh. To use, simply scoop ½ of mix into a small pot, and cover with a few inches of water. Allow to simmer
on low heat on your stove top, adding water as the potpourri reduces down. You can also use a small potpourri-sized crock
pot. If you're feeling really crafty, make a big batch, divide into several jars, and then tie with a decorative ribbon or piece of
raffia. Add a note card, and give as gifts for your friends at Yule!
Blend together:
• 3 Cups dried orange peel
• 1 Cup dried lemon zest
• 4 Cinnamon sticks, snapped into thirds
• ¼ Cup whole cloves
• ¼ Cup pine needles
• 10 allspice berries
Roll out salt dough, cut shapes with cookie cutters, and bake until hard. Then you can paint your own designs on the
ornaments Salt dough is one of the easiest things in the world to make, and you can create just about anything from it. Use
it with cookie cutters to make your own Sabbat ornaments.
You need the following
• 4 Cups flour
• 1 Cup salt
• 1 ½ Cups hot water
• 1 tsp vegetable oil
Combine the salt and flour, then add the water until the dough becomes elastic. Add the oil at this time and knead the
dough (if it's too sticky, add more flour). Once it's a good consistency, make your decorations with cookie cutters. Bake
ornaments at 200* until hard (about 20 - 30 minutes). Once they've cooled, paint them with designs and symbols, and seal
with clear varnish.
If you're planning to hang them, poke a hole through the ornament BEFORE baking them.
Scented Pine Cones
Scented pine cones are a beautiful - - and fragrant - - addition to your Yule decorations.
If you want to keep an earth-friendly theme to your Yule decorating, one way to do so is to use the elements found in
nature as part of your decor. Simple things such as seeds, acorns, feathers, and other found items are easy to make into
ornaments and other decorations. For this simple project,
You'll need the following
• Pine cones, of any shape or size
• Equal amounts ginger, nutmeg and allspice, blended
• A 1:1 mixture of water and craft glue
• Glitter
• Ribbon
• A small paintbrush
To prepare the pine cones, rinse them under running water and then spread them out on a baking sheet. Bake at 250 for
about 20 minutes -- this will make them open up, and also get rid of any trace amounts of bacteria that might remain on
them. Don't worry if there's sap on them - it will harden into a shiny glaze and look pretty.
Once the pine cones have cooled, use the small paintbrush to apply the glue to the cones (I'd recommend spreading out
some newspaper ahead of time). You can either cover the entire cone, or just the outer tips of the petals.
Add the spices and glitter to a zip-loc bag. Drop the pine cones in, and shake until coated with spices and glitter.
Allow to dry thoroughly, and then tie a ribbon around the end so you can hang it up. Add a few springs of greenery if you
like. Use it on a holiday tree, or place them in a bowl to scent your room.
Make a Pipe cleaner Pentacle
Herbal Sachet
These simple sachets are easy to make, and you can either use them as ornaments on your holiday tree, or give them
away as gifts.
You'll need the following
• Bay
• Cloves
• Juniper berries
• Orange peel, grated
• Orris root
• Peppermint
• Pine
• Rosemary
• Squares of your favorite holiday fabric
• Colorful ribbon
• Cinnamon sticks
• Small bells
Mix the herbs together in a bowl. Blend varying proportions of each until you've got the scent you want -- here's a hint: start
small!
Use a spoon to place the blended herbs into the center of a square of fabric. Pull the corners up and tie with the ribbon. Tie
a cinnamon stick and a couple of bells in place as well. Use a second piece of ribbon to create a loop so you can hang the
sachet if you like.
Time saver tip: you can buy small tulle bags in holiday colors and spoon the herb blend into them. Pull the drawstring
closed and tie shut, then hang up on your tree, or give them to a friend.
Yule Simmering Potpourri
You can bring the scents of the Yule season into your home by blending up your own batch of potpourri. Keep it in a Mason
jar so it will stay fresh. To use, simply scoop ½ of mix into a small pot, and cover with a few inches of water. Allow to simmer
on low heat on your stove top, adding water as the potpourri reduces down. You can also use a small potpourri-sized crock
pot. If you're feeling really crafty, make a big batch, divide into several jars, and then tie with a decorative ribbon or piece of
raffia. Add a note card, and give as gifts for your friends at Yule!
Blend together:
• 3 Cups dried orange peel
• 1 Cup dried lemon zest
• 4 Cinnamon sticks, snapped into thirds
• ¼ Cup whole cloves
• ¼ Cup pine needles
• 10 allspice berries
| Festive Recipe |
| A Short History of Yule |
1.Winter is the time for bare root, planting and transplanting of roses. This time of year is when you need to prune your
roses back. Leave the stalks at least one foot high, and take off all plant material that is dead and diseased.
2.Dormant spray is a good idea to use on your fruit trees. Its will keep pests in check. Make sure to fallow label instructions
and ask your local greenery plenty of questions to ensure best results.
3.Frost sensitive plants can be covered with a bed sheet, blanket or plastic sheeting. If the plant is wet when covered, frost
temperatures can still damage the plant. Make sure leaves and soil are simi dry before coverings.
4.Do not cut frost damage off the plants until you you see new growth.
Winter is a good time to get seed catalogs for the next seasons planting and to think of new design ideas.
roses back. Leave the stalks at least one foot high, and take off all plant material that is dead and diseased.
2.Dormant spray is a good idea to use on your fruit trees. Its will keep pests in check. Make sure to fallow label instructions
and ask your local greenery plenty of questions to ensure best results.
3.Frost sensitive plants can be covered with a bed sheet, blanket or plastic sheeting. If the plant is wet when covered, frost
temperatures can still damage the plant. Make sure leaves and soil are simi dry before coverings.
4.Do not cut frost damage off the plants until you you see new growth.
Winter is a good time to get seed catalogs for the next seasons planting and to think of new design ideas.
| Winter Yard Care |
| Table of Contents |
| Imbolc Ritual Written/ Adapted by Silver DragonMoon |
When the weather's frosty and dry, skin becomes dryer, flakier and more irritated. So how is it that some women look so
darn supple and healthy, even in the dead of winter, while you're all dry and chapped? As usual, we're here to help with 10
tremendous tips to keeping beautiful in winter.
Apply full-spectrum sunscreen even when it's chilly: You probably know that UVB rays are the sun's burning rays, but UVA
radiation is the principal cause of wrinkling and skin cancer and can penetrate glass. Hello! This means that even if you're
at home, driving or in the office by a window, you'll need full-spectrum (both UVA and UVB) coverage. This is true on even
the cloudiest winter days. Murad Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 15 (Murad.com) is a high-quality choice.
Don't linger in the bath or shower: Healthy skin has a protective superficial layer called the stratum corneum -- essentially, a
natural "lipid barrier," and as temperature and humidity drop, this natural barrier becomes vulnerable to damage, says
Stacy P. Salob, MD, clinical assistant professor in the Department of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical Center in New
York. She cautions against prolonged bathing, especially with hot water, because the water will sap moisture from this
superficial layer, leaving the skin drier, flakier and more susceptible to damage and irritation.
Cut back on acids and astringents: For the winter months, consider limiting your use of alpha-hydroxy acid products and
astringents that contain alcohol, Salob says. We may love these products for their exfoliating properties, but they can strip
the skin of its natural protective oils, leaving it easily irritated.
Humidify thyself: Bicoastal dermatologist Karyn Grossman recommends a humidifier in your bedroom and office to
prevent winter skin from drying out. Humidifiers keep air moist. Look for a UV model because they offer a germ-free mist,
better to soothe those dry lips and chapped skin. Grossman recommends brands such as the SlantFin GF350
Sip hot cocoa and get your antioxidants: According to recent studies, cocoa beans were found to contain large amounts of
natural antioxidants called flavonoids; thus cocoa powders made from these beans are an undeniably compelling choice of
drink. Go ahead, steam some milk and enjoy your cocoa-anti-oxidants!
Resuscitate Frigid Feet: For dry and flaky winter feet, try exfoliating with a scrub like Alba Sea Salt Body Scrub. Which
contains organic jojoba, avocado and vitamin E. Afterward, dry your tootsies and slip on cozy cotton socks overnight. Your
feet will feel pliant and smooth in the morning.
Revive Chapped Winter Lips: Aside from looking wretched, chapped lips feel awful. Problem is, we continually
exacerbate the condition by licking, so it's an endless cycle. To roll off the dead skin, try the clever Dr. Feel good's
Lipscription, expressly made for "dry-lip emergencies," which buffs away dryness with exfoliating beads, then softens with
Vitamin E & chamomile.
Protect Those Tresses: Tippi Shorter, consulting stylist for Pantene, recommends using a leave-in conditioner before
blow-drying hair, or using hot irons. She likes Pantene Pro-V Daily Renewal Treatment and if you regularly use heated
styling tools, she suggests biweekly or monthly deep conditioning treatments to keep hair hydrated and soft.
Repair Winter Cells: Robert Scott, aesthetician and wellness expert, explains how skin is nourished by blood and lymph
fluid, and since less blood flows when you're cold, you'll want to compensate by giving skin extra protection and
nourishment. He recommends regenerating your skin's appearance by using products that feature amino-peptides, which
work by renewing the skin's outer cell layer, and he loves Olay Regenerist) because it repairs without irritating the skin.
darn supple and healthy, even in the dead of winter, while you're all dry and chapped? As usual, we're here to help with 10
tremendous tips to keeping beautiful in winter.
Apply full-spectrum sunscreen even when it's chilly: You probably know that UVB rays are the sun's burning rays, but UVA
radiation is the principal cause of wrinkling and skin cancer and can penetrate glass. Hello! This means that even if you're
at home, driving or in the office by a window, you'll need full-spectrum (both UVA and UVB) coverage. This is true on even
the cloudiest winter days. Murad Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 15 (Murad.com) is a high-quality choice.
Don't linger in the bath or shower: Healthy skin has a protective superficial layer called the stratum corneum -- essentially, a
natural "lipid barrier," and as temperature and humidity drop, this natural barrier becomes vulnerable to damage, says
Stacy P. Salob, MD, clinical assistant professor in the Department of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical Center in New
York. She cautions against prolonged bathing, especially with hot water, because the water will sap moisture from this
superficial layer, leaving the skin drier, flakier and more susceptible to damage and irritation.
Cut back on acids and astringents: For the winter months, consider limiting your use of alpha-hydroxy acid products and
astringents that contain alcohol, Salob says. We may love these products for their exfoliating properties, but they can strip
the skin of its natural protective oils, leaving it easily irritated.
Humidify thyself: Bicoastal dermatologist Karyn Grossman recommends a humidifier in your bedroom and office to
prevent winter skin from drying out. Humidifiers keep air moist. Look for a UV model because they offer a germ-free mist,
better to soothe those dry lips and chapped skin. Grossman recommends brands such as the SlantFin GF350
Sip hot cocoa and get your antioxidants: According to recent studies, cocoa beans were found to contain large amounts of
natural antioxidants called flavonoids; thus cocoa powders made from these beans are an undeniably compelling choice of
drink. Go ahead, steam some milk and enjoy your cocoa-anti-oxidants!
Resuscitate Frigid Feet: For dry and flaky winter feet, try exfoliating with a scrub like Alba Sea Salt Body Scrub. Which
contains organic jojoba, avocado and vitamin E. Afterward, dry your tootsies and slip on cozy cotton socks overnight. Your
feet will feel pliant and smooth in the morning.
Revive Chapped Winter Lips: Aside from looking wretched, chapped lips feel awful. Problem is, we continually
exacerbate the condition by licking, so it's an endless cycle. To roll off the dead skin, try the clever Dr. Feel good's
Lipscription, expressly made for "dry-lip emergencies," which buffs away dryness with exfoliating beads, then softens with
Vitamin E & chamomile.
Protect Those Tresses: Tippi Shorter, consulting stylist for Pantene, recommends using a leave-in conditioner before
blow-drying hair, or using hot irons. She likes Pantene Pro-V Daily Renewal Treatment and if you regularly use heated
styling tools, she suggests biweekly or monthly deep conditioning treatments to keep hair hydrated and soft.
Repair Winter Cells: Robert Scott, aesthetician and wellness expert, explains how skin is nourished by blood and lymph
fluid, and since less blood flows when you're cold, you'll want to compensate by giving skin extra protection and
nourishment. He recommends regenerating your skin's appearance by using products that feature amino-peptides, which
work by renewing the skin's outer cell layer, and he loves Olay Regenerist) because it repairs without irritating the skin.
| Beauty Is Only Skin Deep Look Beautiful all Winter By: Isadora Dunne |
Note: My younger brother Lawrence and I started making these rum balls years ago; before he could legally drink. They
are very simple to make.
Lawrence's Rum balls
Makes five dozen
3 cups finely crushed vanilla wafers
1 3/4 powdered sugar
1 cup finely chopped Macedonian nuts
1/4 cup cocoa
3/4 rum
1/4 corn syrup
powdered sugar
mix the vanilla wafers, powdered sugar, nuts and cocoa , blend well.
Stir the rum and corn syrup in to the dry ingredients. Shape the mixture
into 1-inch balls. Roll the balls in the granulated sugar. In a covered container
keep refrigerated for three day before serving.
are very simple to make.
Lawrence's Rum balls
Makes five dozen
3 cups finely crushed vanilla wafers
1 3/4 powdered sugar
1 cup finely chopped Macedonian nuts
1/4 cup cocoa
3/4 rum
1/4 corn syrup
powdered sugar
mix the vanilla wafers, powdered sugar, nuts and cocoa , blend well.
Stir the rum and corn syrup in to the dry ingredients. Shape the mixture
into 1-inch balls. Roll the balls in the granulated sugar. In a covered container
keep refrigerated for three day before serving.
| A letter from the Editor |
| Newsletter |
| Winter Solstice Edition 2011-2012 |
| Articles Wanted for The Covens' Point Newsletter |
As a reader of the Five Points Coven web page might know that we also have a newsletter called The Covens' Point. The
newsletter is produces four times a year, the Solstice and the Equinox. Click here for more info!
Newsletters include updates on health and beauty, links to other web pages, poetry, recipes and articles on a variety of
pagan related topics.
The editorial staff of The Covens' Point invites you to submit articles for publication in the newsletter.
Article drafts must be submitted to me by December 10th for the Winter Solstice edition. We will review the article and work
with the author to edit as necessary for grammar, typos, and clarification. Click here to submit an article!
newsletter is produces four times a year, the Solstice and the Equinox. Click here for more info!
Newsletters include updates on health and beauty, links to other web pages, poetry, recipes and articles on a variety of
pagan related topics.
The editorial staff of The Covens' Point invites you to submit articles for publication in the newsletter.
Article drafts must be submitted to me by December 10th for the Winter Solstice edition. We will review the article and work
with the author to edit as necessary for grammar, typos, and clarification. Click here to submit an article!
| Recommended Reading List |
| Choosing the right books for you |
Winter is here as happy as can be, with a spark in his eye. The sky is
blue and the air that surrounds us is fresh and crisp. I just want to dance
in the beauty of winter. I love this time of the year, it rejuvenates my soul.
This year winter should be happy and simple, it is time to remember days
long past. Take the family for an old fashion outing, have a picnic by the
river and then go find the perfect Yule tree. Spending time with our
families this winter should be the most important thing we do.
No matter how hard things may seem at times; we need to go to a place
in our heart where we can be at peace and remember that life is still
wonderful. Give your family all the love that you can.
Enjoy this festive season; go to as many parties as you can, play in the
snow, and spend every free moment with your friends and family.
Silver
blue and the air that surrounds us is fresh and crisp. I just want to dance
in the beauty of winter. I love this time of the year, it rejuvenates my soul.
This year winter should be happy and simple, it is time to remember days
long past. Take the family for an old fashion outing, have a picnic by the
river and then go find the perfect Yule tree. Spending time with our
families this winter should be the most important thing we do.
No matter how hard things may seem at times; we need to go to a place
in our heart where we can be at peace and remember that life is still
wonderful. Give your family all the love that you can.
Enjoy this festive season; go to as many parties as you can, play in the
snow, and spend every free moment with your friends and family.
Silver
Winter solstice occurs when the sun is at its greatest angular distance on the other side of the equator. For us here in the
northern hemisphere, winter solstice happens between December 20-23 each year. This year, we can look forward to
solstice on December 21.
Winter solstice heralds the beginning of lengthening days and shortening nights. For pagans, this is a very special moment
in the wheel of the year. Our most ancient ancestors enduring the cold of winter looked forward to the promise of warmth
and growth that comes with longer days. From the time of winter solstice to spring solstice, daylight increases by
approximately 1 minute every day. This time of emergence from the darkness of autumn has traditionally been interpreted
in similar ways in cultures all across the world. In virtually every ancient culture on Earth, this time of year has been
associated with rebirth of the sun. Various cultures since ancient times have celebrated their sun gods at winter solstice
with celebrations, rituals, festivals, and feasts.
The modern Christian tradition of Christmas is the celebration of the birth of God incarnate, or Jesus Christ, on December
25, and actually is rooted in the pagan winter solstice celebrations that the early Christian church was unable to stamp out.
For modern pagans, including Wiccans, Winter Solstice, sometimes called Yule, is one of the eight Sabbats (Solar
Holidays) that comprise the wheel of the year. Just as our ancestors did thousands of years ago, we celebrate the rebirth
of the Great God, and we look forward to warmer days and planting seeds. Celebrating life and light in the cold of midwinter
is an activity brings happiness and keeps us in touch with the turning wheel of nature.
Gift exchanges, feasts, and charity drives to help the poor in the community
are all great ways to celebrate this time of year in a pagan way that is in
harmony with the traditions of our Christian friends and family. Winter
Solstice is truly an interfaith holiday that we all can share.
A particularly appropriate mediation to do as a part of winter solstice ritual,
or by itself, is the Birth of the Sun Meditation. Simply meditate in a darkened
room contemplating/feeling the energy of autumn, harvest, darkness, and
calmness. When you feel ready, light a single candle and focus on the
energy of solstice-a glimmer of light in the dark cold of winter, the stirrings
of rebirth, and building energy. This is a beautiful meditation to celebrate
and become in tune with winter solstice energy.
To brighten up the dark, cold days of winter, we can decorate our homes
and altars with solstice colors of red, green, gold, and white. Candles and
oil lamps bring a bit of the Sun God energy into our daily lives. Also,
decorating with evergreen boughs and pine cones is a creative way to
celebrate. Making (or buying) an evergreen wreath for the front door
decorated with natural objects and herbs is also a great way to celebrate
the beauty of winter.
Light and Love,
Sister Ocean Rose
are all great ways to celebrate this time of year in a pagan way that is in
harmony with the traditions of our Christian friends and family. Winter
Solstice is truly an interfaith holiday that we all can share.
A particularly appropriate mediation to do as a part of winter solstice ritual,
or by itself, is the Birth of the Sun Meditation. Simply meditate in a darkened
room contemplating/feeling the energy of autumn, harvest, darkness, and
calmness. When you feel ready, light a single candle and focus on the
energy of solstice-a glimmer of light in the dark cold of winter, the stirrings
of rebirth, and building energy. This is a beautiful meditation to celebrate
and become in tune with winter solstice energy.
To brighten up the dark, cold days of winter, we can decorate our homes
and altars with solstice colors of red, green, gold, and white. Candles and
oil lamps bring a bit of the Sun God energy into our daily lives. Also,
decorating with evergreen boughs and pine cones is a creative way to
celebrate. Making (or buying) an evergreen wreath for the front door
decorated with natural objects and herbs is also a great way to celebrate
the beauty of winter.
Light and Love,
Sister Ocean Rose
| Yule Ornaments |
Use three chenille stems to shape this pent - - one makes the circle,
and the other two get folded around to form the star.
Use chenille stems in your favorite color to create one of these.
They're easy, and your kids can do it once you show them how to
bend the stems. You'll need three pipe cleaners, or chenille stems,
for each pentacle.
Bend the first stem into a circle, and overlap the ends by about an
inch, so you can twist them closed.
Take the second stem, and create three arms of the star inside the
circle. Be sure to twist it around the circle as you make the points,
because this will keep it from sliding apart.
Take the last stem and create the final two arms of the star. Use the
remaining length of stem (don't snip it off) to twist into a loop so you
can hang your ornament.
and the other two get folded around to form the star.
Use chenille stems in your favorite color to create one of these.
They're easy, and your kids can do it once you show them how to
bend the stems. You'll need three pipe cleaners, or chenille stems,
for each pentacle.
Bend the first stem into a circle, and overlap the ends by about an
inch, so you can twist them closed.
Take the second stem, and create three arms of the star inside the
circle. Be sure to twist it around the circle as you make the points,
because this will keep it from sliding apart.
Take the last stem and create the final two arms of the star. Use the
remaining length of stem (don't snip it off) to twist into a loop so you
can hang your ornament.
| Setting Up Your Yule Altar |
Your Yule Altar
What to Put on a Yule Altar. Decorate your Yule altar with symbols of the season
- - candles, suns, evergreen boughs, and even Santa Claus if you wish.
Yule is the time of year when Pagans and Wiccans celebrate the Winter Solstice.
If you're in the Northern Hemisphere, this will be on around December 21, but if
you're below the Equator, your Yule celebration will fall in June. This Sabbat is
considered the longest night of the year, and following Yule, the sun begins its
long journey back to earth. Try some or even all of these ideas -- obviously,
space may be a limiting factor for some, but use what calls to you most.
It's Party Time
Appetizers and Parties Make A Perfect Partnership, We have many parties to go to, we have Yule, New Years Eve and
Imblc. Spend this winter with your friends and family and good food.
How Many Appetizers Do You Need?
When you are having an appetizer party, you will need a good variety of appetizers. You will need to plan on having about
15 appetizers, bits per guest.
For 10 guests and 5 different appetizers, you will need to make 30 serving of each one.
To ensure that you have enough food, you may want to have a little extra. Pick an appetizer that will keep for a few days
our, one that can be frozen.
Appetizers and Parties Make A Perfect Partnership, We have many parties to go to, we have Yule, New Years Eve and
Imblc. Spend this winter with your friends and family and good food.
How Many Appetizers Do You Need?
When you are having an appetizer party, you will need a good variety of appetizers. You will need to plan on having about
15 appetizers, bits per guest.
For 10 guests and 5 different appetizers, you will need to make 30 serving of each one.
To ensure that you have enough food, you may want to have a little extra. Pick an appetizer that will keep for a few days
our, one that can be frozen.
Champagne Cocktail
1 teaspoon fresh pomegranate arils, optional
4 ounces Champagne
1/2 teaspoon store bought pomegranate juice
1 teaspoon cassis
Place fresh pomegranate arils, if using, into a Champagne flute. Pour Champagne into flute, add pomegranate juice and
cassis.
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
1 whole head of cabbage remove core and boil for 10 minutes, then drain (put core end down)
1 egg
1lb ground beef
Rice make equal amount of ground beef and rice
1 packet onion soup mix
1 small can
1 large can of tomato juice
Mix ground beef, rice, soup mix, tomato sauce and egg, (mix well). Cover the bottom of a casserole dish with some tomato
juice. Wrap 1 or 2 tablespoon of beef mixture in a cabbage leaf, roll and place in the casserole dish.
Make a layer of cabbage rolls, cover with some tomato juice, then make a second layer in till you are out of mixture then
cover with tomato juice
Sausage Balls
1 lb graded cheese (your chose)
1 lb ground sausage
3 tsp water
3 cups bisquik
I a large bowl mix all ingredients together. Form one inch balls with the mixture; place the balls on a baking sheet. Bake in
a 350 degree oven for about 20 min or until brown.
Sister Ocean’s Curried Pumpkin Soup
3 tablespoons olive oil
½ of a yellow onion very finely minced
1 clove of garlic very finely minced
1 red apple peeled and very finely minced
½ tablespoon good curry powder
2 cups water
1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger
small shake of nutmeg
salt
2 smallish Kabocha squash, roasted whole at 450 degrees for 40 minutes
1 14 oz can coconut milk
14 oz of soy milk (you can use coconut milk can to measure)
First roast your kabocha squashes whole because they are very hard to cut into raw. Poke holes in them, put them in a
pan, and roast at 450 for 40 minutes or until soft. When they are done, peel the skin off, take the seeds out, you will have
a bowl of nice, soft squash.
Mean while caramelize onions in oil by cooking them at low heat until they are a nice golden brown-do not burn them.
Add apple and garlic and cook on med until apples soften, about 3 minutes.
Add curry powder, nutmeg, water, salt, and squash and bring to a boil
Turn heat down and simmer for 10 minutes
Add coconut and soy milk
Heat through on med for 5 minutes or so.
*At this point-If you would like your soup thicker, simply mix ¼ cup of flour into ½ cup of water, then pour this into the pot
and bring to a boil while stirring constantly until it thickens.
Enjoy!
Sister Ocean
1 whole head of cabbage remove core and boil for 10 minutes, then drain (put core end down)
1 egg
1lb ground beef
Rice make equal amount of ground beef and rice
1 packet onion soup mix
1 small can
1 large can of tomato juice
Mix ground beef, rice, soup mix, tomato sauce and egg, (mix well). Cover the bottom of a casserole dish with some tomato
juice. Wrap 1 or 2 tablespoon of beef mixture in a cabbage leaf, roll and place in the casserole dish.
Make a layer of cabbage rolls, cover with some tomato juice, then make a second layer in till you are out of mixture then
cover with tomato juice
Sausage Balls
1 lb graded cheese (your chose)
1 lb ground sausage
3 tsp water
3 cups bisquik
I a large bowl mix all ingredients together. Form one inch balls with the mixture; place the balls on a baking sheet. Bake in
a 350 degree oven for about 20 min or until brown.
Sister Ocean’s Curried Pumpkin Soup
3 tablespoons olive oil
½ of a yellow onion very finely minced
1 clove of garlic very finely minced
1 red apple peeled and very finely minced
½ tablespoon good curry powder
2 cups water
1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger
small shake of nutmeg
salt
2 smallish Kabocha squash, roasted whole at 450 degrees for 40 minutes
1 14 oz can coconut milk
14 oz of soy milk (you can use coconut milk can to measure)
First roast your kabocha squashes whole because they are very hard to cut into raw. Poke holes in them, put them in a
pan, and roast at 450 for 40 minutes or until soft. When they are done, peel the skin off, take the seeds out, you will have
a bowl of nice, soft squash.
Mean while caramelize onions in oil by cooking them at low heat until they are a nice golden brown-do not burn them.
Add apple and garlic and cook on med until apples soften, about 3 minutes.
Add curry powder, nutmeg, water, salt, and squash and bring to a boil
Turn heat down and simmer for 10 minutes
Add coconut and soy milk
Heat through on med for 5 minutes or so.
*At this point-If you would like your soup thicker, simply mix ¼ cup of flour into ½ cup of water, then pour this into the pot
and bring to a boil while stirring constantly until it thickens.
Enjoy!
Sister Ocean
Wassail
Yield: Serves 8
2 (3-inch) cinnamon sticks plus 8 for garnish
10 whole allspice
8 whole cloves
1 qt cranberry juice cocktail
1 qt apple cider
2 tablespoons sugar
1 Granny Smith apple
1 cup Calvados or apple liqueur
Special equipment: a 6- by 4-inch piece of cheesecloth; kitchen string.
Wrap 2 cinnamon sticks, allspice, and cloves in cheesecloth and tie with string. Simmer cranberry juice, cider, sugar, and
spice bag in a 5-quart heavy pot, uncovered, skimming froth occasionally, heat for10 minutes.
Halve apple and cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Add apple slices and Calvados to cider mixture and simmer 2 minutes
(slices will remain crisp). Serve hot and garnish with cinnamon sticks.
Mulled Wine Punch
Yield: 10 servings
2 bottles dry red wine
4 ounces port or brandy
12 whole cloves
4 cinnamon sticks
1 large orange, zested
Special equipment: a 6- by 4-inch piece of cheesecloth; kitchen string.
Serving suggestion: Garnish with cinnamon sticks or freshly ground nutmeg
Combine dry ingredients in a cheesecloth and tie with string, add to a large pot with wine and brandy. Bring to a simmer;
do not allow mixture to boil. Heat for 20 minutes and serve in a large, heat resistant punch bowl.
Yield: 10 servings
2 bottles dry red wine
4 ounces port or brandy
12 whole cloves
4 cinnamon sticks
1 large orange, zested
Special equipment: a 6- by 4-inch piece of cheesecloth; kitchen string.
Serving suggestion: Garnish with cinnamon sticks or freshly ground nutmeg
Combine dry ingredients in a cheesecloth and tie with string, add to a large pot with wine and brandy. Bring to a simmer;
do not allow mixture to boil. Heat for 20 minutes and serve in a large, heat resistant punch bowl.
Colors of the Season
Winter is here, and even if you do not have snow where you live, there's a definite chill in the air. Use cold colors to
decorate your altar, such as blues and silvers and whites. Also find ways to include the reds and golds of the sun.
Evergreen boughs never go out of style, so add some dark greens as well. Cover your altar with a cloth in a cool color,
and then add candles in a variety of different wintery shades. Use candles in silvers and golds -- and sparkle is always
good too!
Symbols of Winter
Yule is a Sabbat that reflects the return of the sun, so add solar symbols to your altar. Gold discs, yellow candles,
anything bright and shiny can represent the sun. Some people even get a large pillar candle, inscribe it with solar
symbols, and designate it as their sun candle. You can also add evergreen boughs, sprigs of holly, pine cones, a Yule
log, and even Santa Claus. Consider antlers or reindeer, along with other symbols of fertility.
Other Signs of the Season
There's no limit to the number of things you can put on your Yule altar, as long as you've got the space. Consider some of
these items as part of your Sabbat decor:
• Fruit and nuts
• Mistletoe
• Snowflakes, icicles, even a bowl of snow
• Candy canes
• Bells
• Sun Wheels
Winter is here, and even if you do not have snow where you live, there's a definite chill in the air. Use cold colors to
decorate your altar, such as blues and silvers and whites. Also find ways to include the reds and golds of the sun.
Evergreen boughs never go out of style, so add some dark greens as well. Cover your altar with a cloth in a cool color,
and then add candles in a variety of different wintery shades. Use candles in silvers and golds -- and sparkle is always
good too!
Symbols of Winter
Yule is a Sabbat that reflects the return of the sun, so add solar symbols to your altar. Gold discs, yellow candles,
anything bright and shiny can represent the sun. Some people even get a large pillar candle, inscribe it with solar
symbols, and designate it as their sun candle. You can also add evergreen boughs, sprigs of holly, pine cones, a Yule
log, and even Santa Claus. Consider antlers or reindeer, along with other symbols of fertility.
Other Signs of the Season
There's no limit to the number of things you can put on your Yule altar, as long as you've got the space. Consider some of
these items as part of your Sabbat decor:
• Fruit and nuts
• Mistletoe
• Snowflakes, icicles, even a bowl of snow
• Candy canes
• Bells
• Sun Wheels
Most Pagans that I know are avid readers, always seeking more knowledge and studying something. You have to read
what interests you, or you'll be bored and you won't get anything out of what you read. I have Dyslexia and I do not
read as much as I should.
Of course, you will be interested in books relating to the path that you follow. If you're just starting to study that path,
you will probably find that you get a special feeling about a certain subject. It is like you're being drawn to something in
particular, it just feels right to you. Follow your intuition.
Here is a short list of recommended books to get you started on your path.
Practical Solitary Magic: By Nancy Watson
True Magic: By Amber K
Drawing Down the Moon: By Margot Adler
Book of Shadows: By Phyllis Curot
Wicca: (A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner): By Scott Cunningham
Living Wicca: (A Further Guide for the Solitary Practitioner): By Scott Cunningham
Everyday Magick: (Spells & Rituals for Modern Living): By Dorothy Morrison
Buckand’s Complete Book Of Witchcraft: By Raymond Buckland
The Pagan Man: By Issac Bonewits
By Oak, Ash and Thorn: By D.J Conway
Witchcraft : Theory and Practice: By De Angeles
The Book of Druidry: By Ross Nichols
The Druid Handbook: By John Michaels Greer
Essential Asatru: By Diana L. Paxson
Way of the Shaman: By Michael Harner
what interests you, or you'll be bored and you won't get anything out of what you read. I have Dyslexia and I do not
read as much as I should.
Of course, you will be interested in books relating to the path that you follow. If you're just starting to study that path,
you will probably find that you get a special feeling about a certain subject. It is like you're being drawn to something in
particular, it just feels right to you. Follow your intuition.
Here is a short list of recommended books to get you started on your path.
Practical Solitary Magic: By Nancy Watson
True Magic: By Amber K
Drawing Down the Moon: By Margot Adler
Book of Shadows: By Phyllis Curot
Wicca: (A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner): By Scott Cunningham
Living Wicca: (A Further Guide for the Solitary Practitioner): By Scott Cunningham
Everyday Magick: (Spells & Rituals for Modern Living): By Dorothy Morrison
Buckand’s Complete Book Of Witchcraft: By Raymond Buckland
The Pagan Man: By Issac Bonewits
By Oak, Ash and Thorn: By D.J Conway
Witchcraft : Theory and Practice: By De Angeles
The Book of Druidry: By Ross Nichols
The Druid Handbook: By John Michaels Greer
Essential Asatru: By Diana L. Paxson
Way of the Shaman: By Michael Harner
We gather to night as brothers and sisters to celebrate Imbolc. The central point of the dark half of the year, the
feast of the waxing light.
Ground and Center
Take three deep cleansing breaths. When you are ready picture yourself as a big tall redwood in a vast forest over
looking the ocean. See your arms as the branches reaching towards the sky. See your feet reaching deep into the
earth as the roots. Grabbing the power from deep within the land, you will lock the energy deep in your body. Feel
the ocean breeze clean you of all negative emotion and felling your essence with bliss. Breathe deep and feel
yourself connected with the universe and the divine. Breathe a few more times, then open your eyes.
Circle casting:
Calling the Corners
With the Essence of the North, Lady and Lord of earth. Bounty and growth, Comfort and protection. We invite you to
join with us and bless this sacred circle.
With the Essence of the East, Lady and Lord of Air. Security of spirit. Understanding and wisdom. We invite you to
join with us and bless this sacred circle.
With the Essence of the south, Lady and Lord of Fire. Desire and spice. courage and strength. We invite you to join
with us and bless this sacred circle.
With the Essence of the west Lady and Lord of water. Red Coral Sea. Intuition and purification. We invite you to join
with us and bless this sacred circle.
Inviting the God and Goddess:
Brighid wonders Goddess. We ask you to join our circle tonight as we celebrate Imbolc. Join us as we celebrate the
return of the light Hail and welcome.
Cernunnos, God of fertility and the forest We ask you to join us in our circle tonight as we celebrate the sabbat of
Imbolc.
All: Join us as we celebrate the return of the light.
The great Rite:
Bless this day of Imbolc, the time when the young lord, God courts the virgin-maiden, Goddess. Their passion for one
other melts the snow and illuminates the earth.
Witch one: Take up the athame
Witch two: Take up the chalice.
Face each other; visualize the chalice and athame as earthly vessels of our deity.
All repeat:
Tonight we witness the courting of the God and Goddess. May there union be fruitful.
Witch one: places the athame inside the chalice.
As all participants visualize the union of the God and the Goddess.
All repeat:
As they are one, they become one.
As they become one, they are one.
As I, too, am one with them.
With there passion returning spring to the world.
Honoring the Earth:
The maiden comes and shins so bright, the winter dies and all is white. The winter ground shall melt away and all
shall sprout, for spring is on its way.
Hold the seed in your open pale, charging then. Thinking if something you want to offer the earth, it could be a
request of the God and Goddess, or something you may want from yourself.
All:
In my hand I hold the seeds of life, wisdom and strength. I ask the God and Goddess to place a blessing so, that
spring will shine and bring forth-new life.
The seeds of new life are borne on the winter wind.
All:
With this seed I plant an offering to the earth, and hope that with watchful cultivation and daily care my goals may
come to completion in time.
At this time plant the seeds in the earth and cover.
Cake and ale
Thank the God and Goddess:
Farewell to Corners:
Essence of the west, element of water. Red Coral Sea, we thank you for your presence here tonight. Go with our
love. Blessed Be!
Essence of the south, element of fire. Desire and Spice, we thank you for your presence here tonight Go with our
love. Blessed Be!
Essence of the East, Element of air. Security of Spirit, we thank you for your presence here tonight. Go with our love.
Blessed Be!
Essence of the North, Element of Earth, Bounty and Growth we thank you for your presence here tonight. Go with
our love. Blessed Be!
Close circle
The circle is open but unbroken. Blessed be!
| Party Drinks |
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Creating a Yule Log
On Yule, many Wicca’s and Pagans celebrate the return of the sun by adding light into their homes. One of the favorite
traditions – is to make a Yule log for a family-sized celebration. A Yule log can be made of any type wood. Some are used
for associations with certain Magical and spiritual properties. Aspen is the wood of choice for spiritual understanding, while
the mighty oak is symbolic of strength and wisdom. The Pine is for a year of prosperity and the birch for fertility.
You'll need the following
• A log about 14 – 18” long
• Pine cones
• Dried berries, such as cranberries
• Cuttings of mistletoe, holly, pine needles, and ivy
• Feathers and cinnamon sticks
• Some festive ribbon – use paper or cloth , not the synthetic or wire-lined type
• Other charms or symbols that have meaning for you
• A hot glue gun
Begin by wrapping the log loosely with the ribbon. Leave enough space that you can insert your branches, cuttings and
feathers under the ribbon. Once you’ve gotten your branches and cuttings in place, begin gluing on the pinecones,
cinnamon sticks and berries. Add as much or as little as you like. Remember to keep the hot glue gun away from small
children.
Yule logs can be used as centerpieces for the holiday table; Yule logs are beautiful surrounded by candles and holiday
greenery.
Another way to use your Yule log is to burn it as our ancestors did so many centuries ago. Before burning the log at Yule,
write down a wish on a piece of paper, and then insert it into the ribbons. Keep it to yourselves in hopes that it will come
true. Yule logs can be burnt in fireplaces or fire pits.
Altar-Sized Yule Log
• Small altar-sized log
• Three candles: One white, one red, one black
• Bits of holly to decorate with
• Red and green ribbon to be tied in a decorative bow
• Glue gun
The candles can be short squat ones or longer ones if you're willing to drill holes in the log and insert them. Just gluing
them is fine. The white candle represents the innocent phase of life; it goes first. The red represents the childbearing
phase; it goes in the middle. The black candle represents maturity and wisdom; it goes last. Arrange the holly around them
so that drill holes or glue gun marks do not show. Tie a bow with the ribbon and stick on the front.
On Yule, many Wicca’s and Pagans celebrate the return of the sun by adding light into their homes. One of the favorite
traditions – is to make a Yule log for a family-sized celebration. A Yule log can be made of any type wood. Some are used
for associations with certain Magical and spiritual properties. Aspen is the wood of choice for spiritual understanding, while
the mighty oak is symbolic of strength and wisdom. The Pine is for a year of prosperity and the birch for fertility.
You'll need the following
• A log about 14 – 18” long
• Pine cones
• Dried berries, such as cranberries
• Cuttings of mistletoe, holly, pine needles, and ivy
• Feathers and cinnamon sticks
• Some festive ribbon – use paper or cloth , not the synthetic or wire-lined type
• Other charms or symbols that have meaning for you
• A hot glue gun
Begin by wrapping the log loosely with the ribbon. Leave enough space that you can insert your branches, cuttings and
feathers under the ribbon. Once you’ve gotten your branches and cuttings in place, begin gluing on the pinecones,
cinnamon sticks and berries. Add as much or as little as you like. Remember to keep the hot glue gun away from small
children.
Yule logs can be used as centerpieces for the holiday table; Yule logs are beautiful surrounded by candles and holiday
greenery.
Another way to use your Yule log is to burn it as our ancestors did so many centuries ago. Before burning the log at Yule,
write down a wish on a piece of paper, and then insert it into the ribbons. Keep it to yourselves in hopes that it will come
true. Yule logs can be burnt in fireplaces or fire pits.
Altar-Sized Yule Log
• Small altar-sized log
• Three candles: One white, one red, one black
• Bits of holly to decorate with
• Red and green ribbon to be tied in a decorative bow
• Glue gun
The candles can be short squat ones or longer ones if you're willing to drill holes in the log and insert them. Just gluing
them is fine. The white candle represents the innocent phase of life; it goes first. The red represents the childbearing
phase; it goes in the middle. The black candle represents maturity and wisdom; it goes last. Arrange the holly around them
so that drill holes or glue gun marks do not show. Tie a bow with the ribbon and stick on the front.
| Yule Sachet |
| Yule Log |
| Party tips |
| Ricky Barnes |