01 February 2017

the first day of spring


 Imbolc
is a Gaelic traditional festival marking the beginning of spring. Most commonly it is held on 1 February, or about halfway between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.
It is believed that it was originally a pagan festival associated with the goddess Brigid and that it was christianised as a festival of Saint Brigid (Lá Fhéile Bríde)
The etymology of Imbolc/Imbolg is unclear. The most common explanation is that is comes from the Old Irish i mbolc (Modern Irish i mbolg), meaning "in the belly", and refers to the pregnancy of ewes. Another possible origin is the Old Irish imb-fholc, "to wash/cleanse oneself", referring to a ritual cleansing. 
(thanks to Wikipedia)

We cut a few hazel branches for the kitchen window, no frost, the birds are busy. We are neither pagans nor catholics, never overly fond of Oirish rituals, but this is the best day of the year. The most hopeful day of the year. By the weekend, rows of little seed pots will line the sitting room windows. We will start with the peppers.



8 comments:

am said...

"Brilliant dreams in waiting
To see the light of day
We step up to the well
At the dawn of springtime
And when we go our way
We let the light shine"

Good to celebrate this day with you and R once again with this song.

The stars are shining brightly here this early morning before sunrise.

Ms. Moon said...

It is the most beautiful day imaginable here in Florida. I am grateful and it is heartening to know that the day has meaning, as deep as the beauty it holds.

Natalie d'Arbeloff said...

Thank you so much, exactly what is needed in these dark grey days. Very best wishes to you.

Anonymous said...

The days are getting longer. We are grateful for every bright moment.

Colette said...

Lovely post. I have seeds I think I need to plant today.

Roderick Robinson said...

Not my field, at all. All I can offer is this:

Tabourer beat
Your little drum;
Things are looking
Decidedly rum

To poor Mr. Merrythought
Dancing apart;
Bells on his trousers,
Hell in his heart

Since round the Maypole
Frolics Miss Prism,
Plainly not knowing
Its symbolism.

Sabine said...

Only the one time every year. For the remainder, we abstain and remain realists.

Zhoen said...

I feel pregnant, or how I imagine that would feel. Not in a good way, though. As though there might be a monster growing there, although I'm not sure.