Winter Solstice and time for hibernation

Detail from Aenghus Óg - more details are HERE

On the longest night we sat in the dark silence of winter and as the light returned to illuminate
the chamber at Newgrange I lit a candle to welcome the suns' rebirth.

Although we have a few more seconds of daylight now the weather is firmly set to winter and
for me it is the time of year to hibernate: to rest, to dream and to go inwards.

It is a time when I am often inspired with new images for paintings or form new connections to
older ideas. It is an interval when I read books, write in my journal or sit and reflect.

'Elder Mother' © Jane Brideson

So until the green shoots appear I wish you all the blessings of hibernation.

May you awaken refreshed and renewed!

To read about Winter Solstice sunrise at Newgrange please visit -
Irish Archaeology
For a tour of the complex, video and more information visit - Voices from the Dawn
Places inside the mound to witness the return of the sun are limited but a lottery is drawn every year.
To take part please visit -  Newgrange.com

Solstice Blessings

As we approach the darkest time of the year I am very grateful that I have warmth, enough to eat and the love of my partner and friends. 

Last year we decided that we would donate the money we spend on gifts, cards and postage to an Irish charity.

This year we will be giving to the Capuchin Day Centre for Homeless People in Dublin.

Their mission statement is -

'Inspired by the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, we at the Capuchin Day Centre welcome people in need of food aid who have no home, or are socially excluded and respecting their dignity, provide a caring pastoral, holistic and non-judgmental service responsive 

to their needs.'

If you would like to read more about the centre please click the link -
http://www.homeless.ie/Capuchin_Day_Centre_2013/Capuchin_Day_Centre_for_Homeless_People.html

May you have food, warmth and companionship over the festive season.
Blessings
Jane