Happy Imbolc!

Today is the halfway point between the winter solstice, and the spring equinox. It has been a special day in many cultures with long winters, who call it Imbolc, St. Brigid's day (the Catholics attempted to civilize the old custom), Candlemas, Groundhog Day, and others.

It's traditional to open the windows during the day (to let in more light), keep the lights on all night, and bring fresh flowers into the home. Ironically, we have daffodils sprouting in our backyard at the moment. Jack Frost had a poor run this year.

We hung our white ribbon on our door, for St. Brigid to bless last night. Today the boys and I will be folding dodecandron star lanterns (well, I will be), and we'll be reciting the classic rhymes.

If candlemas day be fair and bright

winter will have another fight

If candlemas day brings cloud and rain,

winter won't come again

If candlemas day be dry and fair

the half of the winter's to come and mair

If candlemas day be wet and foul

the half o the winter's gane at yule.