The last full moon of 2012 occurred Dec. 28 at 4:22 a.m.
CST. It is the longest full moon of the year, thus its name, Long Night’s Moon.
But it is also known by other names: “Cold Moon, “Oak Moon, “Christmas Moon.”
When it occurs before Christmas, it is known as “Moon before the Yule.”
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| December Full Moon Credit: examiner.com |
Native Americans had other names for the full moon. The Dakota Sioux called it the “Moon of the Popping Trees”. The Cheyenne named it
the “Big Freezing Moon”. The Taos call it the “Night Moon” and to the Wisham it
is “Her Winter Houses Moon”.
Who knew the December full moon had so many names?
December’s full moon is visible longest because we’re in
the midst of the longest nights of the year, the longest of which occurred Dec.
21.
The moon stays full through Dec. 29 .I was not awake at 4:22 a.m. today, won’t be moon-gazing tonight due to a heavy cloud cover but will hope for clearer skies tomorrow night.
People have blamed weird behavior on the moon for centuries, ranging from people turning into werewolves to lunacy to epileptic seizures to sleeplessness.
Here’s an interesting You Tube video from davidskybrody on why mythologies surrounding
lunatic behavior during the full moon just aren't true.
So go ahead. Howl if you must the next two nights. But don't blame it on the moon!
Somehow, it feels natural to use the Cold moon name here in Finland, as it is cold outside, and the moon looks cold.
ReplyDeleteI have felt nothing " special " at the times of full moon, though I have heard frightening tales.
Some people find it difficult to fall to sleep. A hint: Pull the blinders down in the bedroom; ).
I agree that Cold Moon seems appropriate for December. Hope you are staying warm in cold Finland.
DeleteHello Sanda
ReplyDeleteYou have given me permission to be unaccountable for two nights!! That could be dangerous.
I have learned from this post and the wonderful names the various tribes of Indians used.
Wishing you a sleepful night.
Helen xx
I'm sure you are always accountable, Helen! Those were interesting names, weren't they? Happy New Year to you.
DeleteVery interesting and informative - all new names to me. Cold Moon seems appropriate doesn't it as today has been a bone chilling day!! Sox and Val/Kris cheered me up today as well as those beautiful/wonderful outisde kitties!
ReplyDeleteThe clouds can't dampen our spirits when we have these energetic animals to keep us engaged. I can certainly understand why the Therapy Dog program works to cheer people in hospitals and nursing homes.
DeleteWe were up early and saw the moon yesterday morning. It was so bright outside. I like moon watching, a benefit of being an early riser in winter (maybe the only one!) Enjoyed reading the many names for this months full moon.
ReplyDeleteDarla
Always so neat to get up early and see the full moon and the beautiful December sunrises. Unfortunately, I have missed most of the sunrises this month because I'm usually not up that early. Used to be when I was going to work, but now...not so much!
DeleteIsn't there an old song about "Cold Moon Rising"? And I thought there was a book called something with "Long Night's Moon" in the title. Never knew all those names for full moons - Thanks!
ReplyDeleteCould be, Beryl but I'm not familiar with those title. But you and I both agree that "Moonstruck" is one of the best movies ever!
Deletewe're very lunar in my house always argue more and wonder why until we look into the sky......have also slept really badly last couple of nights, waking feeling anxious so wh knows??!!
ReplyDeleteThank you for visiting my blog and your first-time comment. Interesting that you notice the moon affects moods/behavior. Many people do report this as well.
DeleteI forget what class I took in college that discussed the difference between the energy of the Sun and the Moon. The Sun (male energy) was thought to be the most powerful but the Moon (female energy) has the power to control the Ocean the largest body of water on Earth. So it was a toss up. Astrologically I am a Moon Child but have not been able to notice the mood affecting my moods because we are known to be Moody in general and I definitely feel that!!!
ReplyDeleteThat is interesting information to know; don't think I've heard that. I suppose that most of us are moody at times, Moon child or not. But at least you have something to blame for yours!
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year!