First Foot Kits

I suggested the craft group make some First Foot Kits to sell at the craft fayre, the lady who took on this task, phoned me lastnight and said she could not manage, so surprise, surprise, I ended up with them. However, I really enjoyed making them, probably because its been a while since I last made them.

For those of you unfamiliar with the custom of "First Footing", this is the term used in Scotland for the first person who steps into your house, after midnight at New Year, hence the term "First Foot". However, it is not that simple, the first person to step in, should be dark headed and must not come empty handed, thus ensuring your house never goes without in the year ahead.

So to make sure you are welcome at any door as a first foot, this kit contains

Shortbread - may you always have food to eat

Money (5p) - may your purse always hold a coin or two

Coal - may you always have warmth in your home

Whiskey - to toast your health

attached to the ribbon is also a Scottish prayer

O thou who kindly dost provide

For ev'ry creature's want!

We bless the God of Nature wide,

For all Thy goodness lent.

And if it please Thee, heavenly Guide,

May never worse be sent;

But, whether granted or denied,

Lord, bless us with content.