To fully appreciate the celebration of the Saint Lucia day on December 13 one has to be in Sweden where the daylight is down to about 6 hours (if it is a clear day). Even if it is not the shortest day, it is a good date: still 11 days to Christmas and the First Advent was 12 days ago.
In the circle of the family, ideally one has a daughter who comes early in the morning, dressed in something long and white with one or more lit candles, serving hot coffee, saffron buns and ginger snaps...... For me it was such a good feeling to be back and live in this well known tradition and not having to explain what 'gloegg' is and how old/young this swedish custom is. I felt 'at home'.
If you have the time and inclination, then you can click on this post's title and watch the actual 7 AM TV Lucia celebration as it is seen by thousands of Swedes. A modern substitute for
those who have no "Lucia" in the house and have to make their own coffee and eat the store bought saffron bun - as I did quiet contently.
In the afternoon - 4.30 PM the Stockholm Stadsmuseum had their own Lucia with her singing group, all from a music school. Despite a cold wind, we all were warmed and moved by the beautiful children's voices and well known songs. In the darkness the music and the many light sources give strength and hope for the next dark and freezing months.
.....As the sun departs from earth, shadows are brooding, there in our dark house, walking with lit candles - Santa Lucia, Santa Lucia!.......
Just for the end of the year, we made it back to get over our jet lag before we are ready for the next adventure. The last years we always had a very calm end and beginning in Maine at the sea to say good bye with the sunset and then good morning to the sunrise from Europe.
