December 23 - Day 4 of Yule: The Hearth and the Home

This post is part of my 12 Days of Yule series, inspired by the seasonal framework outlined by Pagan Grimoire. For the ancient people, the hearth was the undisputed center of the home. It was where we gathered for warmth, light, and safety. Today, we often gather around the modern version of a stone fireplace—the cooktop and the oven.

The hearth at home

I don’t have a fireplace in my own home, but I sure wish I did. In my mind, my favorite kind of fireplace often features a Dutch tile surround. I suspect this fascination started with Scrooge; I’ve always loved the description in A Christmas Carol of his hearth:

"The fireplace was an old one... and paved all round with quaint Dutch tiles, designed to illustrate the Scriptures. There were  Angelic messengers descending through the air on clouds like feather-beds... Apostles putting off to sea in butter-boats, hundreds of figures to attract his thoughts..."



I found a beautiful example of Dutch tiles at a restaurant in Providence, Rhode Island. These aren’t Biblically themed like Scrooge’s, but feature more everyday, colorful scenes. I find myself staring at them endlessly, listening to their silent stories much like the family lore we hear around a dining table. It feels like the perfect spot to come up with new fables or dabble with color and texture in a sketchbook.

When you look at the tiles in the photo, does one particular scene or color draw your eye? I’d love to know what stands out to you.

The Fortress

In the great hall at Belcourt in Newport, Rhode Island, the fireplace is a literal fortress. The white mantel is intricately carved into a medieval castle, complete with towers and battlements that seem to guard the flames.



There is such a grand, medieval energy here. The rhythmic red-and-white brickwork inside the firebox creates a vibrant backdrop for the dancing light. It reminds me that our homes are our strongholds - the places where we keep our inner fires burning against the winter wind. Where we gather our loved ones close by and feel secure.

Imagine sitting near to this fireplace to write or draw.  I don't think a story born here could exist without a knight or a legend.

Warming Your Sanctuary

The "hearth" is wherever we find our center. Whether we are sitting by a grand stone chimney or a single candle on a nightstand, we can honor this day with simple rituals of belonging.

 Here is how I’m leaning into that "hearth spirit" today, and I’d love to hear how you are doing the same:

  • Tending the Flame: If you have a fireplace, you might clear the old ash before a new fire. For me, it’s about lighting a yellow candle to act as my "central sun" for the evening.
  • The Art of Detail: I’m using my Artist's Eyes to look at my space today, finding the one small detail—a textured blanket or a favorite print—that makes me feel "home." What is that anchor for you?
  • A Scent of Security: I'll have a simmer pot of cinnamon and lemon on the stove tonight to fill the rooms with a sense of abundance and protection. Orange is traditional, but I prefer lemon. Do you buck tradition to make your rituals more personalized?
How are you warming your hearth and home this season? Whether it’s a grand tradition or a quiet moment in the kitchen, I’d love for you to share it in the comments below!