Litha

Last night was Midsummer's Eve, the shortest night of the year. In ages past this night was said to be filled with magic and faerie mischief. Today was officially the first day of summer. We are seeing warmer weather here on the North Coast. Yesterday also happened to be Father's Day and I spent the afternoon down at Avenue of the Giants in the redwoods and by the Eel River with the family.

We have reached the waning half of the year. From this point forward, the days will gradually grow shorter until we reach the Winter Solstice which is in December, just a few days before Christmas.



Many myths and legends center on this special day. It is on this day that legends tell of the annual battle of the Oak King and Holly King. The Oak King who was born at the Winter Solstice is defeated in battle by the Holly King who reigns from this day forward until he is in turn defeated at the Winter Solstice. For those of you who don't know, the symbolism of the Holly King has been carried over into our modern interpretation of Santa Claus.




Another popular image is the Green Man, the Spirit of Nature. His face can be seen in many cathedrals all over Europe, a hidden reminder of its Pagan past. The Green Man is said to be the guardian of the natural world, his face hidden among the leaves.



The hollow hills are said to open wide on this night and the Wee Folk are known to wander the earth. There are several warnings for those who encounter the Fey. Don't eat or drink anything that they offer you as earthly food will lose all flavor afterwards and you will forever long for another taste of the Faerie food and drink. If you see the Wee Folk dancing about in a circle, do not join them. Many legends tell of those who have and when the dancing has ended, the unfortunate souls discover that a hundred years have passed and all of their loved ones are long gone.



It is said that herbs gathered on the Summer Solstice are the most potent. When possible, I like to take a walk alone in Nature and gather herbs from the wild on the Solstice. I had to work today and was unable to do so this year. A popular herb that blooms and flowers at the Summer Solstice is St. Johns Wort. With its bright yellow flowers, this plant is a reminder of the renewing energy of the sun.

I am usually filled with energy at this time of year as I am able to spend more time outdoors. I look forward to days spent at the beach and in the forests, and try to plan at least a couple of camping trips during the summer months.

I have much to look forward to this summer. Ryan, our oldest son, is returning home from the army. In just a few weeks we will be taking a much needed family vacation. I have a camping trip with friends planned later in the summer. My sister is planning a trip out to California so I am looking forward to spending some time with her.

I have recently joined a gym with a friend and am working on getting myself into shape, including something I have never done in my adult life... running! The warm weather and fresh air is intoxicating after being locked indoors during the cold winter and the rainy months of spring.

But nothing stays the same as I was reminded yesterday when I was in a store and noticed that they were already setting out their fall decorations. The clerk was carrying a large plastic pumpkin and I smiled as I looked forward with anticipation to my own favorite time of year... Autumn.