Yule Log

The Yule Log is a northern European tradition dating back to pre-Christian times. This ancient act of bringing the outdoors in to decorate the home in the dead of winter is also a great way to pass the time with family and friends. This year our kitten even got in on the fun!

Traditionally the Yule Log would be constructed from materials foraged from outside. Family and friends would come together and decorate the log with twine, berries, evergreen, and bits of paper with wishes and gratitudes written upon them. Then, on the winter solstice (Dec. 20th this year)--the longest night of the year--you burn the log, sending all the good feelings imbued in it out into the night, knowing that each following day will be a bit longer and a bit lighter.

You will need:

1. A log - any log will do,

this year a neighbor chopped down an aspen and let me have a piece.

2. Foraged materials, evergreen, berries (we had leftover from Thanksgiving!),

pinecones, you name it!

3. Twine and scissors.

4. Paper and pen for writing well wishes on.

5. Friends and family (or your cat),

or just a quiet moment to get lost in the simple act of decorating.

This year I borrowed a wood burning pen and we had a blast customizing the log with our initials and the year to the log! The only problem was I ended up wanting to use the pen to brand every wood surface in the house, it was seriously addicting!

Here is our finished log! Buiding your own yule log is a fun, free, and eco-friendly family tradition. Collect bits and pieces from around the yard or a nearby park and gather with your loved ones to enjoy this centuries old Winter tradition. I'd love to see photos of your creation!