Imbolc's begun

Unlike some Pagans, I tend to do this seasonal approach to the major holidays (Sabbats), because of changes in the calendar systems over the years. So, some people celebrate the cross-quarter days at the 1st of November, February, May, and August. Some do the 2nd for February and August. It's almost always a sunset to sunset thing, regardless. I tend to start celebrating the night before the modern holiday and end with sunset on the 12th, the old calendar. Think of the 12 days of Christmas. :)

Anyway, Imbolc is sacred to Bríd, the Irish Goddess who inflames us with inspiration and creativity. Her day was 'adopted' by the Catholic church into Candlemas (along with a saint, Bridget, named for her). Her flame is lit on this night, dolls made from the last harvest are dedicated to her and burnt, with the ashes or an equal-armed cross made from grain or other materials may be placed on doors as a form of protection. She is also associated with calving and so dairy foods are often eaten at this time. In the Celtic calendar, Imbolc is the beginning of Spring, as the days are lengthening. That seems to be how it translated to Groundhog's Day in America, although I'm not quite sure on the history there. Still, it's probably a little odd. :)

I've enjoyed dairy foods today, and I'm doing 'spring cleaning'. On the night of the 11th, I plan to light candles throughout the house and have a bigger celebration.

So, happy Spring-to-be. :)