Conversation 34

YULE

On the arrival of the Winter Solstice, we observe Yule.

Also known as Jul, Yule predates the Christmas holiday by thousands of years. Linguists debate the origin of the word Yule. Some suggest the word is derived from “Iul,” the Anglo-Saxon word for wheel. This makes a connection to a Celtic calendar, the Wheel of the Year. However, in the Norse culture, “Jul” refers to the god, Odin. Odin was celebrated during Yule as well.

Yule celebrations included bonfires, decorating with holly, mistletoe, and the boughs of evergreen trees, ritual sacrifices, feasts, and gift-giving.

ANNE AND SAMANTHA DAY

Celebrated bi-annually on the summer solstice and the winter solstice, Anne and Samantha Day honors two young women, Anne Frank and Samantha Smith, and the impact they had on the world.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE DAY

Crossword Puzzle Day on December 21st commemorates the birth of a challenging word game enjoyed by millions worldwide.

NATIONAL MAINE DAY

On December 21st, National Maine Day recognizes the 23rd state to join the union and the most eastern one, too!

PHILEAS FOGG WIN A WAGER DAY
Phileas Fogg Win a Wager Day on December 21st commemorates a date in fictional history. In the classic novel, Around the World in 80 Days by French Novelist, Jules Verne, December 21st is the date illustrious main character Phileas Fogg must complete his challenge to win a wager of £20,000.

WINTER SOLSTICE

The winter solstice is the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. It occurs annually between December 20th and December 23rd.

NATIONAL FRENCH FRIED SHRIMP DAY

On December 21st, seafood lovers celebrate National French Fried Shrimp Day. Enjoyed all year long, this delicious dish delights many across the country.

HUMBUG DAY

Humbug Day on December 21st recognizes the Ebenezers, the Scrooges, grinches, and curmudgeons who the joy out of the holiday season.

Sometimes, even the most joyous of us all get bitten by the hum-bug. Regardless, it’s essential to do our best to remember all those who suffer from it the most. Spread some joy their way and bring the holiday spirit into their lives. However, the day was created to express our frustrations, to let the Scrooge in all of us out, and let him reveal himself. Whether we declare it through a humbug or two or just avoid the people-y places, the day gives us a break from the hustle and bustle of activity that comes with the season.

It’s a stressful time of year for many reasons. Some of us may be lonely, and others may feel pressure to do more than is humanly possible. We may also set our own expectations quite high, too. As a result, the stresses of the holiday season pile up, leaving us feeling a bit like Scrooge.

Celebrate the Longest Night of the Year! 🌌
On this day, the Sun reaches its lowest point in the sky for the Northern Hemisphere, marking the Winter Solstice—the shortest day and longest night of the year.
Meanwhile, in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s the Summer Solstice, bringing the longest day and shortest night of the year.
🌌 Whether you’re embracing the long, quiet night or enjoying extended daylight, this moment marks a powerful turning point in Earth’s annual journey around the Sun—when the light begins its slow return.

The roots teach us loyalty to our origin, the trunk teaches steadfastness in the journey, and the leaves teach the beauty of letting go….for life grows not by holding on, but by giving.

Goodbye fall, hello winter. Have a beautiful new season!😊❤❄️