winter solstice

party planning

It's the Shortest Day of the Year. Let's Celebrate!

The Mayans may not have been correct about today being the end of the world, but this year, Dec.


The Mayans may not have been correct about today being the end of the world, but this year, Dec. 21 does mark the shortest, darkest day of the year. It's the Winter solstice, which signifies a turning point in the year. From here on out, the nights will grow shorter and the days longer. We think this is as good a reason as any to celebrate and host a party.

The theme of the party: a cozy Winter night. Invite your friends over for an evening of fun. String fairy lights everywhere and light as many candles as you can (safely). After all, the Winter solstice marks the rebirth of the sun and the reemergence of daylight, so it's only appropriate to celebrate with lights! Play calming folk music like The Wailin' Jennys in the background and bring out the playing cards and dominoes for entertainment.

For scene-setting recipe ideas for your Winter solstice party, keep reading.

Poll

Do the Short Days of Winter Keep You From Working Out?

Today is Winter Solstice, and it is officially the shortest day of the year.

Today is Winter Solstice, and it is officially the shortest day of the year. Starting tomorrow the days will start being just a wee bit longer and I, for one, welcome a little more daylight. Regardless if I set my alarm for an earlier time, I really don't get out of bed until my youngest wakes up. She wakes with the sun, so each day it has been just a little bit later. My inability to rise before the sun is up is dramatically affecting my ability to fit exercise into my daily life.

On this shortest day of the year, I am looking to see if I am alone this dilemma. So tell me . . .

Source

Love and Sex

The How-To Lounge: Celebrate the Winter Solstice

Not everyone celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa, but everyone can celebrate the Winter Solstice.

Not everyone celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa, but everyone can celebrate the Winter Solstice. It falls on Dec. 22, and it's the day when the sun is the farthest away from the equator. It's also the shortest day and the longest night of the year.

Why not start a tradition where you celebrate this unique day? For a few ideas on how to commemorate the solstice, read more

candles

Winter Solstice

Today marks the official start of winter - it's the solstice.

Today marks the official start of winter - it's the solstice. Good news for all of you winter sports fanatics since there are so many fun things to do in the snow. I can't wait to hit the slopes.

Today is also the shortest day of the year. If you are like me and want the sun to rise before you do, this is good news since the days will slowly start getting longer. Plus this is great for all of you folks that like to exercise outside since there will be just a little more daylight soon.

Tonight though, I say let the darkness be outside and get cozy inside. Light lots of candles, make a fire, make a pot of tea or a nice mug of hot cocoa. Now just relax - you deserve it.

Music

Song for the Winter Solstice

Today is the Winter Solstice, a.k.a.

Today is the Winter Solstice, a.k.a. the shortest day of the year followed by the longest night. The looming darkness just makes me want to listen to some good, wintry music. Fortunately, I've found the perfect thing: "Winter Solstice" by Sufjan Stevens, from his newly released album, Songs For Christmas. Tune in on Monday for my review of the massive five-disc set, but until then, enjoy this excellent and very appropriate track.