I do believe in fairies!

Ever since I was a little girl I've been fascinated with the natural world. I also have a particular fondness for the magical world too. And this includes pixies, trolls, unicorns, nisser (Danish Christmas elves), and, of course, fairies! Now, don't get me wrong, I certainly don't have twee plastic gnomes all over the garden, or tacky ornaments of dragons and pixies on the mantelpiece.

However, I do like the mystery surrounding these mythical beings. Fairies are usually tiny, often beautiful human-like creatures (sometimes with wings) that appear in legends and folklore around the world. Fairies probably began as versions of pagan nature gods and goddesses, and so they are often associated with the outdoors.

Depending on the region, fairies are said to live in woodland communities, underground kingdoms, or inhabit lakes, hills, or stone or grass circles — sometimes with centaurs, elves, ogres, gnomes and other such creatures. Fairies come in many races and tribes, and vary in size and shape; though most are small, some can change in height and become human-sized or larger if they choose.

The remains of a fairy...

Fairies are now mostly relegated to children's magical fiction, hence the phrase "fairy tales." In centuries past, however, many adults also believed in the existence of fairies. Early fairies were not cute pixies; they were lustful, nasty and cruel creatures as likely to kill you as lead you out of the forest. They were often benevolent, but could also be capricious and vindictive. Travelers on long journeys (or even those just beyond their home villages) would bring offerings to leave for the fairies, typically bannock (bread) cakes, tobacco or fruits. In return, the fairy folk might provide good weather or safe passage from wild beasts and highwaymen.

Today I decided to pamper to my inner 'fairyness' and make a little home for a fairy. It's very easy to do and makes a lovely (and also rainy day) play activity with small people, as they can use their imagination to create something rather magical.

Find a large jar, the bigger the better.

Pop out to the woods, your garden, or a local park, and collect some stones, a little moss and a few twigs.

Arrange these items in the jar. If you wish, you could also add some miniature furniture, for instance, chairs and a table borrowed from a doll's house. I kept my fairy jar quite natural, like their woodland floor home.

I added a large toadstool, and popped my little fairy girl in.  And I think she looks rather cute nestled there in the spongy green moss, bringing a sparkle of New Year magic to my home!

How about this teapot fairy house made by Arthur Millican, jr. of Sleepy Hollow Woodworking Studio?

Or this pine cone house from Annmarie Garden?

 

So, tell me, do you believe in fairies?