The astronomical date for the Winter Solstice this year is December 21. For some of us this is a time for celebration, for some a time for ceremony, and a time for introspection, divination and planning. Some of us do all this and more!! I certainly do!

Is this time special to you, too? Why? And, what do you do to mark the occasion?

This swap may be a way! 

"Winter's Ways" is a two-fer swap, where we'll share an essay on why the winter solstice is special to us, and what we do or share during that time.

Maybe you're a kitchen witch and grow some of your own herbs, winter may be the time you plan out your garden, and decide where what will grow. Maybe you celebrate the rebirth of the sun with your friends/coven/circle/family by meditating, bonfires, gift giving or welcoming the sun and a new day. Maybe you do all this and have a yule log, a xmas tree or a menorah... Maybe you go to midnight mass? Maybe you have created your own traditions....

Whatever you celebrate and however you partake, write an essay about it. Or if it makes it easier, write your experience in letter form, sharing you plans for this year, who you look forward to sharing it with, what you're excited to share...And if your event already passed, then how did it go? Maybe you want to write about what you shared in the ATC?

Details:

-You'll have 1 partner. 

-You will make them an ATC representing something about your Winter Ways: its origins, any symbols, tools or representations you can share without disrespect.

-Art medium is sender's choice- You can draw, paint, collage...depict your celebration as you see best and feel most comfortable. Just make something you are proud to share. Remember that many of us are eclectic and often add art to our sacred spaces.

-You will write an essay to educate your partner about the image(s) you are sharing; the meaning of symbols or whatever images you show on your ATC, and how it relates to your Spiritual life.

Swap Requirements:

• This is an ATC AND writing swap.
• ATC cards size is 2.5 x 3.5 in. (64mm x 89mm) NO ALTERED PLAYING CARDS
• No sub-par work. No slap dash. No digital only. No stickers. No large embellishments and no white backgrounds. These are common requirements for any ATC swap.
• On the back of your ATC you will write the swap name, Your User Name, Your real name and your location. 
• Writing requirements apply. Handwritten or printed is ok. 
• Send your partner a minimum of 2 pages of writing (1 sheet has 2 pages). 
• Sheets must be 6x9 in (15x23 cm) or larger. If you use the smaller size, send 2 sheets/2 sides written. Same applies if you use a notecard.
• Feel free to decorate the pages, but it's not required, and please don't use decor to fill your pages.
• Make sure to write the swap name and your user name in your letter so you can get rated!

To participate:

• Swappers will require a thoroughly filled profile and recent activity on the site, especially as the swap nears. 
• Any low ratings in your history will need to be addressed to me via SB messaging, with the understanding that this will not guarantee participation. However, if you don't reach out you will not participate. 
• If you don't get your goodies, reach out to your partner to resolve it first. Give them the benefit of the doubt and a reasonable amount of time to respond. If you don't get a response after a reasonable amount of time, then rate them a one. 
• Please keep in mind that these actions are only what we can do and does not guarantee your swap partner will send your goodies. 
• I CANNOT angel swaps. Participate at your own risk.