The Yule log is a remnant of the bonfires that the European pagans would set ablaze at the time of winter solstice. These bonfires symbolized the return of the Sun. The Yule log can be made of any wood. Each releases its own kind of magic.

• Aspen: invokes understanding of the grand design.

• Birch: signifies new beginnings.

• Holly: inspires visions and reveals past lives.

• Oak: brings healing, strength, and wisdom.

• Pine: signifies prosperity and growth.

• Willow: invokes the Goddess to achieve desires.

On the night of Yule, carve a symbol of your hopes for the coming year into the log. Burn the log to release its power. Save a piece of this year's Yule log for kindling in next year's fire. You may also wish to decorate the log with greenery, flowers, ribbons and herbs for magickal intent. Some choices might be:

• Carnations-protection, courage, strength, healing, increases magical power, vitality 

• Cedar-wealth, protection, purification, healing, promotes spirituality  

• Holly-dreams, protection 

• Juniper- Exorcism, protection, healing, love 

• Mistletoe-a catalyst, fertility, health, success, protection, banishing evil  

• Pine-healing, wealth, protection, purification, exorcism, exorcism, fertility, wealth 

• Rosemary-health, love, protection, exorcism, purification, increase intellectual powers, peace, blessing, consecration, very powerful cleansing and purifying  

• Roses-love, courage, luck, health, protection, beauty

• Ribbons can be used according to their color magic correspondences.

Be creative and have fun!