It is perhaps fitting that this post is a day late, as I discovered that the Solstice this year actually occurred at 4.49am this morning, rather than on December 21st.
Despite wind and rain I set off to the special place where I always pick my holly. I suspect it's not really allowed but I would prefer to gather my own holly, piece by careful piece, taking only a few sprigs from each tree and, I have to admit, thanking each tree as I do so.
Anyway- It's one of my favourite Christmas rituals. I try to go on the Solstice if possible and I love the feeling of being out in the middle of an ancient copse of holly trees, following the traditional way of decorating my home for Christmas.
I was rained on, buffeted by the wind, muddy and scratched by the time I had my collection.
I didn't really mind, as I feel you should suffer a little for your holly!
Back at home everything was tipped out, the garden raided as well and I set about decorating the house (tucking sprigs of holly behind the paintings) and then making my wreaths.
I made a traditional one for the kitchen door:
Then I threw together a large unwieldy one for the front door which I decided not to photograph. I may have to do a bit of 'titivating' on that one..
And finally, I turned my attention to the inside wreath for over the fireplace. I must admit to being really pleased with it.
Last Autumn I bought a huge bunch of dried Honesty seed-heads, or 'moons' as I know them. I had the idea they would make a beautiful, delicate wreath. It was a tricky, delicate task. I made a simple base from a few twisted ivy stems and them carefully pushed little bunches of the moons in until I was satisfied. The crimson ribbon and little heart made of tiny bells added the final touch. I love the feeling of satisfaction that comes from having a creative idea, working on it and then seeing the finished result looking just as I had imagined it!
The Christmas tree is in and now awaits our decorating, so I will just say " Happy Solstice to everyone" and return to the cheerful but exhausting task of preparing for Christmas.
Despite wind and rain I set off to the special place where I always pick my holly. I suspect it's not really allowed but I would prefer to gather my own holly, piece by careful piece, taking only a few sprigs from each tree and, I have to admit, thanking each tree as I do so.
Anyway- It's one of my favourite Christmas rituals. I try to go on the Solstice if possible and I love the feeling of being out in the middle of an ancient copse of holly trees, following the traditional way of decorating my home for Christmas.
I was rained on, buffeted by the wind, muddy and scratched by the time I had my collection.
I didn't really mind, as I feel you should suffer a little for your holly!
Back at home everything was tipped out, the garden raided as well and I set about decorating the house (tucking sprigs of holly behind the paintings) and then making my wreaths.
I made a traditional one for the kitchen door:
Then I threw together a large unwieldy one for the front door which I decided not to photograph. I may have to do a bit of 'titivating' on that one..
And finally, I turned my attention to the inside wreath for over the fireplace. I must admit to being really pleased with it.
Last Autumn I bought a huge bunch of dried Honesty seed-heads, or 'moons' as I know them. I had the idea they would make a beautiful, delicate wreath. It was a tricky, delicate task. I made a simple base from a few twisted ivy stems and them carefully pushed little bunches of the moons in until I was satisfied. The crimson ribbon and little heart made of tiny bells added the final touch. I love the feeling of satisfaction that comes from having a creative idea, working on it and then seeing the finished result looking just as I had imagined it!
The Christmas tree is in and now awaits our decorating, so I will just say " Happy Solstice to everyone" and return to the cheerful but exhausting task of preparing for Christmas.
