The Yule Cat

I recently ran across the name of Jólakötturinn, the Yule Cat of Iceland. Legend says that the monstrous cat emerges to eat those poor souls who don't wear new clothes on Christmas Eve. What is this, some kind of feline fashion police?

The origin of legend is unknown, but it's speculated that it was a threat in days gone by to spur family members on the farms to finish their spinning and weaving after the fall sheep shearing. Wool exports were important to the economy of Iceland in times past, and everyone had to do their part. Anyone who didn't finish their weaving didn't have new clothes to wear for Christmas, marking them as victims of Jólakötturinn.

Now it's got me thinking. What if that legend were transported onto the icy moons of Saturn? If you don't get your space suit patched in time for Christmas, Jólakötturinn might just get you in the dark!

Have a happy holiday with your friends and family. I'll be back next year with more stories.

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