Winter Solstice

The winter solstice begins on Dec. 21st. It is called the longest night because it is the shortest day and longest night of the entire year. Since the winter solstice happens in the middle of the holidays (and is a traditionally Pagan holiday ), some people might not remember to actually celebrate it.

What is it? And why celebrate it?

The Norse ancestors considered this time to be a time for togetherness and feasting. It was a time to give their thanks to their gods for all they had. During this time they would find a large yule log ( the bottom part of the tree) And burn it in the fire.

This yule log would burn all throughout the long night. They would also sacrifice a big boar in the name of one of their gods called Freyr and eat it along with many other wonderful dishes.

Though we do not celebrate as they did, we can still enjoy some of those same traditions.
Ham (In Place of a Roast Boar) *A Traditional Yet Modern Yule Recipe* is a great dish to make and enjoy on this long night.

A Prayer

Dear God,
We give thanks to You, the Creator and giver of Light. We ask that you keep us safe during the longest night, and that you continue to watch over us. We give thanks for Your continued Love and Protection.-Amen

Sliced Ham With Roasted Vegetables Recipe

Ingredients

• 6 Medium Potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 5 medium Carrots, julienned
• 1 Medium turnip, peeled and cubed
• 1 Large Onion, cut into thin wedges
• 6 slices (4-6 oz. each) fully cooked ham, halved
• 1/4 cup orange juice concentrate
• 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Prepared horseradish
• 1 teaspoon grated Orange peel

Cooking Directions

1. Line 2 15 in X 10 in X 1 in baking pans with foil and coat with nonstick cooking spray
2. Add Potatoes, carrots,turnips and onions
3. Generously coat with butter
4. Bake, uncovered at 425F for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
5. Arrange Ham slices over the vegetables.
6. On a bowl, combine the remaining ingredients.
7. Spoon over Ham and vegetables.
8. Cover and bake 10 minutes longer or until the Ham is heated through.
9. Serve.
   Serves: 6