The Cottage Diaries ~ Winter Solstice and the Celtic Festival of Light

[@Cassieroll]

Winter Solstice is my favorite day of the year. I noticed today the birds darting about and singing their songs sunrise this morning. It made me smile.

[@janewright2800]

Your home and land is so magical collette ✨️as are you and sweet Patsy of course! Have a blessed solstice 🙏💚🎄🌳

[@nadinemasteller1089]

It's tough tending to all of the outside chores that need doing each season and then trying to keep up with all that needs doing inside the house. Believe me, I'm 73, almost 74 and have been trying to find a way to balance these things for about 53 years.

[@amyjones2490]

We had a lovely winter day. Sunshiny, still and not terribly cold. I had a wander around my garden and was noticing all the color still there. Hope your Solstice is a lovely time for you and yours.

[@veronicasmith1147]

What's a little dust among friends ❤😅🎉

[@ivyjulieharvey3043]

out of the family crisis I am going through at present and not in a festive celtic mood at mo watching your video and listening to a calm voice had brought me some peace and a few ideas for my homestead

[@lindylou3519]

“Clutter up the board instead of my head”…good one! Lol I just use a pen & pad on my coffee table where I sip coffee each morning. It gives me a great feeling of accomplishment to scratch thru the jobs I get done for the day.

[@Pauline-bg6ud]

Such lovely pictures and you are so happy ❤️

[@elainerichards6406]

Hi Colette, Wishing you and Patsy a very Blessed Yule ❤❤

[@michelleibbitson1205]

The Ash branch is lovely. Also, I do exactly the same as you Collete, I have my homemade blackboard in my kitchen and I write lists of things to do on it, I also write the amount of credit that is on my gas prepayment meter on there so I can remind myself to keep it topped up 😊 xx

[@janewills3379]

Good morning Colette. I love how you have captured the sun on the tops of the bushes especially the red osier dogwood (I'm hoping that's what it is because it looks so similar to mine). You've done a lovely job making your home look and feel so warm and welcoming. Blessings to you.

[@lulucly]

That is the problem with cleaning and sparkling up, another area then displays a need for attention. LOL Love that branch. It was indeed a lovely gift. The cottage looks ready for a gathering!

[@FarmhouseWorthy]

I love the branch, I love to collect natures treasures. “Clutter the board, not your head”. Perfect! My old senior dog likes to lay in the sun rays which fall into the house, they are by no means dumb.

[@juliethartwell4525]

Love it all, and thanks for another lovely video! Quentin Crisp, on housework, … ‘After the first four years, you no longer notice the dust,’ … 😆😆

[@JR-kz2xn]

Such a perfect little branch. It deserves to be decorated, honored and enjoyed. I hope it brings you and yours great happiness Colette. Thank you for the video this morning. Such a gift. I hope every moment in your day is filled with beauty. 💚

[@ShazzeoftheNorth]

What's a little dust in a beautiful, creative, spiritual life. Live and let live I always say - but I always dust when it reaches critical levels - musn't be lazy. You share because you have a healers soul, and you know if someone like you doesn't dust, then we're allowed as well. The cottage looks gorgeous for the holidays - wonderful to see you in this lovely space. I think those woods are magical, with flowers it'd be a bit of heaven.

[@coffeewithroomforcream]

Yes, Colette, your books are some of my most treasured. ❤ This fall I invested in a heated mattress pad, and it is bliss. I set it to turn off automatically after an hour and a half, and it's so lovely to snuggle into a warm bed with a book each night. I also knitted myself some knee socks out of worsted weight wool, because my feet and legs are always cold. They're so cozy!

[@paulashaham6282]

So very beautiful. Enjoy listening to you

[@loisbanks3614]

It is lovely when everything is clean and cozy - enjoy your lovely home Colette. Your family will have such happiness there. I can see why you return to the path in the bluebell woods - those trees are magnificent. Peace and Calm all-ways!

[@Mariah3272]

Hi Colette-- I hate dusting too!!!! I always leave it to last. Usually I am so busy I forget about it. Patsy certainly does know the warmest areas of the house. She is too cute. The house looks wonderful. You gave me a great idea for my sofa. It needs a change. I am tired of looking at the same seat cover!!!! I will head to the fabric store and get something new,to change the look of my living room. As always Blessings to you and Patsy and your family!!!!!

[@Jacquiandteddy]

What a fabulous twisty branch. Looking forward to seeing how you decorate it. Thank you for another lovely video, Colette.

[@OLaura3552]

Everything looks extra! magical! That sweet little Patsy does my heart so good! Love the new color and the "new" couches!! Lovely!! Blessings, Colette

[@georgemaxwell4984]

Patsy has such a wonderful life. ❤

[@karareynolds772]

This was such a lovely video Colette. The time approaching solstice is so special - I have also noticed the birds singing with joyful gay abandon! Your cottage looks so cosy - the ash branch looks spectacular against the red walls. That colour is a wonderful backdrop to all your pictures, furniture and other items. Having followed you for several years I feel that your lovely cottage is somewhere that I know so well and is a happy place that I am lucky enough to visit often. I am so glad that you and Patsy have found each other - she is such a dear and has certainly made herself at home with you. Give her a tickle behind the ears from me! Love and solstice blessings to you both ❤️❤

[@Clanbaniffe]

Collette I just love your Moon Hare, I have looked everywhere for one and I will find one. Wishing you a most happy midwinter.

[@WarriorGoddessSubliminals]

Ah my dose of nature and beauty. Thank you 🎄❤️🇦🇺

[@hugstreesnswims]

The birds know, don’t they? 😊 I always feel a massive surge of positive energy at the winter solstice, and I find it unbelievable that, in the deep midwinter as the light begins to return, there isn’t a major celebration. There certainly is in my house! Of all things worthy of celebration, a return of the light is right up there at the top of my list 🌝 Thank you for sharing your beautiful home Colette, it is a VERY special place indeed 💚

[@bluebellwood4287]

As you can tell by my user name, I too have a love for bluebell woods. I have beautiful memories of the one close to my childhood home . near to the village in the north east of England where I grew up.. I do hope it's still there. Sometimes I close my eyes and can almost picture it.

[@suezb5445]

Hi Colette cottage and land looks wonderful. Love to you and Patsy the little darling xxx

[@gardentours]

The ash branch is beautiful. I can imagine how it will look like when it's decorated 🎄 I'm looking forward to winter solstice as well. To know that there will be more light every day from then on is such a relief.

[@mightymissk]

Aha! A new Bealtaine Cottage video! I was up to my ears in Christmas preparations but stopped to sit down and go for a walk with you through your woodland, if that makes any sense at all. Bless you dear lady. Have a wonderful, magical Midwinter feast and may you have as much joy in the New Year as you’ve given to us.

[@deewise552]

I am so very lucky that I have five ash trees alive and well along my pond woods. It could be that they are isolated and in the country so they have survived the ash blight thus far. Every winter I watch them shed their leaves, praying they come back healthy in the spring. They come out later than my oaks, hickories & beech, so it’s always a relief to see them pop out!

[@connielee2797]

Wonderful!🧚🏼‍♀️🧚🏽🧚🏽‍♂️

[@Kelly_Ben]

A warm, lovely home, a happy, content dog, and beautiful, magical nature. My few minutes of relaxed happy time each day as I catch up on your videos.

[@spiritualsenga9250]

Also, I am so grateful for you Collette, your such a beautiful soul, blessings to you and your wonderful Patsy 🫶🥰

[@sarahgorsline1340]

i always love being in your garden

[@Gardenwitch1954]

Beautiful Solstice preparations🌠💫🌲🐶

[@VannaWhiteboard]

I was afraid the new color would make things cavernous, but no! It is a magical color that sparkles and has so many beautiful colors in all different light. Its reflection is amazing, especially when it makes that peachy color.

[@cathylynnpietranton]

Really like the fallen branch Colette. Hugs and love ❤

[@glendaplant9032]

Colette, your room looks very smart indeed. With the added tartan sofa covering (bargain) It's looking so cosy. I see Patsy loves her home comforts too🐕 Blessings to you both❤️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇬🇧

[@diamondslashranch]

I never tire of visiting your beautiful world. Thank you once again for allowing us to share it.

[@seaglasskaz6314]

Your video's are stunning Collette. They inspire me so much, and do I need it!!!! Thank you from a cold and windy Yorkshire ❤ xxxxx

[@debravanwinkle3946]

That apple pie looks sooooo delious enjoy 👀👍stay cozy an warm Pasty lol

[@evannegregory5509]

Its is always such a treat to have a tour of your lovely cottage and woodland! I wish you and Patsy a blessed holiday!😊🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲

[@TheQNSzzz]

I picked up a similar fallen ash branch a couple of years ago and it is a permanent feature in my sitting room, decorated according to season. Currently it has plump Santa Claus baubles and delicate tinsel hanging from it, at Easter it will have mini chicks, nests and eggs on it, in the autumn it is covered in leaf decorations etc. I call it 'the antlers' because of its wonderful shape 😁

[@mysticmimi3924]

Love love the color of your sitting room❤

[@jaynewoulfe9961]

Your gardens are still so green in the winter. I’m in Illinois in the US and our trees and bushes are all brown in the winter. Your gardens still look beautiful!

[@marykaymorley8551]

When the light moves around my house throughout the year, I, too, also find new places to dust... I so enjoy your peaceful videos. Happy holidays to you and Patsy.❤

[@susannautterback6815]

Jack❤️❤️❤️. Patsy is lovely 🌹

[@mikeinportland30]

That Ash branch is indeed gorgeous. Nature's simple gifts (especially trees!) really can bring so much joy.

[@elizabethmcmeens1436]

I love your teachings, Colette. Everything…thank you!! ♥️🕊️🪶🐦‍⬛🧚🏽‍♀️🎶🏡❄️🌲

[@Purpleladybirdart]

Blessings to you Colette 💜🙏

[@JanWard-ih1iy]

You never fail to help me feel better! Even when you mention dust. I am grateful for your sharing of Dr. Leonard Shlain's video - The Alphabet and the Goddess. You are a conduit for spiritual growth and moving oneself upward on the spiral of life. I also appreciate all the other tips you share so generously for seeking a balanced life. Together we look forward to the solstice and the return of the light. Blessings back to you.

[@user-fs6ou3fk9p]

Patsy is so wonderful. I'm so glad she's part of your life.

[@TheStarcruiser]

I was reading a article about forest/wood bathing in Japanese culture, spending time in natural light & surrounded by nature, just like at Bealtaine Cottage. Many Thanks Colette & Dear Patsy, you bring much needed healing to the world. Lot's of Love Always 🌻🐦🐝💜

[@PleasantPrickles]

Dusting is my least favorite chore. You’re not alone with your dusty shelves. Haha! Patsy is such a dear. 🐾💕🌱

[@ShazzeoftheNorth]

dusting...what means 'dusting'? 🤣

[@lyndaturner6686]

I love wandering round the cottage, I don’t mind the dusty shelves, what is this madness that sends us into a cleaning frenzy at this time of year😂❤️

[@bealtainecottage]

Solstice madness just about sums it up 😆

[@TheEGA4421]

I am guilty 🤫 of trying to keep everything in my brain 🧠 and usually forget something. The board is a good idea and it is on my shopping list of items to buy. I am halfway through "Three Acres and a Cottage". I have many questions/comments regarding this book. Maybe you could add a separate playlist regarding your books. I enjoy reading and especially books by authors who are not well know. This book is a good read. I like having discussions. I smiled when you mentioned about using the Celtic calendar. The world is not built around the Gregorian calendar. The Gregorian calendar came "afterwards". As I study and research religions and cultures around the world, it seems many Western countries want the world to forget other religions and cultures and only use theirs. Jewish culture, Native Americans, etc..., have their own calendar and year. Each Native American tribe has their own calendar, culture, etc. I feel sorry for people not learning about other cultures. Western cilivization can learn a lot from other cultures.

[@marianfrances4959]

Patsy is so darling!! I love the the Ash branch! That will decorate well. May we all bring new life to old things! 😊 👍😎🇨🇦💫

[@Helene2367]

I so love to stop in and see what Colette has been up to. Always something new and interesting to see in your fabulous home and grounds . Patsy seems like she is really comfy in her surrounding , and who wouldn't be ? Blessing to you always

[@lindaedwards7840]

Good morning to you Colette, So much to look forward to. Avoiding over consumerism. Enjoying the natural beauty that is all around us. The colours in the evening skies have been amazing. The light shadows flickering through the trees branches into my home this is magical to me. Your videos are always a pleasure to watch, thank you very much . Seasons greetings to you and yours. Hugs and Blessings.💚🌹

[@kathleenroberts7972]

Your cottage is so cozy! And I just love patsy!

[@christinestockdale5768]

Thankyou for the lovely tour of your cottage and garden so cosy and beautiful

[@MsScotlyn]

I just love you cottage Colette, it's such an idyllic setting and brings so much joy. Thank you x

[@SusanFreeman]

Dear little Patsy! What a joy she is . ♥️

[@andrearenee7845]

I always love tuning in, and see what you are up to. Lovely...😇🥰Patsy is adorable. What a sweet little pea...

[@amelia2656]

Another lovely video, thankyou. So many things to do. So little time to do it. Only five more days to the turning of the solar year. There is a male tawny owl outside tonight. He has been calling for a female for almost half an hour and I have heard no replies.

[@graceinthegarden9151]

What a delightful video. It helps keep me motivated to make necessary changes. Patsy is so happy and adorable. You have a blessed weekend.

[@triciabergland5067]

❤❤❤ beautiful soulfull sharing 🙏 blessings to you Colette . . .

[@maryz3417]

Winter is so beautiful. Patsy is so sweet 😍

[@futurekron]

I absolutely love your colorful cottage! Happy holidays to you and your followers.

[@summerrain7466]

Oh, Colette, the cottage looks so festive and magical! Yes, I remember you bringing us to the Bluebell Woods with Jack, with his paintbrush tail and his happy smile! What a happy boy! What a gorgeous find, your branch o' Ash! Doesn't it feel sometimes on your walks that little treasures have been left just for you? I think they are offerings for gratitude for all you do.

[@gregorymcd944]

Very nice video! Thank you!

[@brendamchale2683]

Thanks

[@bealtainecottage]

Thank you 🙏 Brenda xxx

[@oilpntr]

YOU AND ME BOTH-and your lovely ways keep coming forward and bless us so in Return Yule Blessing being sent your way

[@lizette-francinefenton1083]

Beautiful video - happy Christmas and a healthy and happy new year 🙏🏻🎄

[@sheryltisdale]

Love your peaceful videos! Your couch covers are beautiful! Blessings!

[@9FatraBbits]

I just love the lower light at this time and I actually I am now appreciative of the shorter days. They will be lengthening soon enough. Don’t you love that jaunty little three-legged hop-walk of Patsys’?! My previous little JRT’s all did this.🌲🌲🐇Blessings

[@patsyspatch4342]

Love the way Patsy does a little skip every now and then as she walks along. The cottage is looking lovely, cosy, warm glows.

[@madhuriparanjape620]

Each and every clip, each and every frame - beautiful and precious as ever. Thank you again. 💚💚💚💚

[@frankiedickens1212]

I went out, found branches, brought them inside, placed them in vases and vessels and hung snowflakes from them. They have brought me so much enjoyment. I understand the “beauty” of finding the perfect branch. ❤

[@OnaMuir]

A joyous Solstice for you and yours. 🥰

[@amyvaccaro2761]

No shame in things that need done…we all have them! I love the ash branch you were gifted from the woods! Beautiful!

[@natashab2304]

Ooh how lovely - that was like a warm hug! Thank you Colette 🥰✨💖

[@sharongreen5885]

Your Property is lovely and especially in December. The Greens Wow. Beautiful Moss. It will be long time before we see that again in Ottawa but I can enjoy your Garden and do. S

[@maryannknox7158]

Holiday Blessings Collette and Pasty xoxo 💋

[@dag118]

Beautiful way to wake up this morning, watching your video. You bring peace and inspiration!

[@valentinaleissler4212]

Oh Collete, it's not just Ireland ash trees that are suffering ! I live in the northern most part of New Jersey, almost into New York state. Ash trees are very common up here and they have all seemed to be suffering from some sort of blight. They did not leaf out during the spring and summer. I have a most beautiful grand ash tree that is estimated to be at least 200 years old on my farm. She did not fully leaf out this past season and I'm hoping she will come back this spring. It will break my heart if I have to take her down but she is very close to my farmhouse... Thank you for your sweet post...love to Patsy!!!!🐾

[@Kelly_Ben]

Hello there! I know your comment is old, but I wanted to share some information I found, sadly AFTER all of my big beautiful ash trees lining the road died. If you catch it before the tree is half dead, you can sometimes save it with treatment. I didn't know that, and missed my window to try to save them. Best wishes!

[@lindawitherspoon446]

Patsy is a very happy dog. The branch is gorgeous. It is a gift.

[@claret4381]

HELLO Colette. Just love the warm colour in the living room I have super memories of JACK in the blue bell woods Every now and again I go back to those older videos

[@ainegoddess2493]

I hope your holiday season is a beautiful time. ❤ Much blessings.

[@alicegunn3970]

I just love your cozy house and soulful garden 🌿

[@lauriejocque1595]

I started a to do list a couple of months ago. Life changer. Everything in your home is just beautiful

[@taylorkleet1519]

What a lovely home✨ Happy Winter Solstice❄️ I will check out your books! Many Blessings to you from Colorado USA🙏🏻🪽💙

[@pamelakincaid7489]

I love that branch and the way it looks in your house. :)

[@jenniferhope9413]

Absaloutly love ❤❤❤❤❤all your videos ❤❤❤❤

[@shariedanceinthedark1746]

Lol, remember telling my mum i was bored when i was a kid. She said if you look for work, you'll find it. So true. I can always find something that needs cleaning.

[@Lanclasscan]

The branch you found is perfect ! The colours and warmth of your home look so inviting. I am inspired to take my dog to the forest today to see what I can find.🥰🐶

[@bealtainecottage]

Wonderful!

[@irishcottagerenovation9900]

Such a beautiful video, dear Patsy looks so happy and the house looks very much loved. The new colour like your covers bring great richness to the cottage. Thank you for sharing.

[@bonniebishop6635]

Lovely, lovely video. 🎄❤️