Calling to the Wolf Women:
The Wolf Moon and the First Pocket of Love
At the Threshold: Writing by Moonlight
I am writing to you from my kitchen, with the Wolf Moon shining brilliantly in the sky.
The Wolf Moon is the first full moon of the year, rising in January. Its name comes from Celtic traditions that noticed wolves howling to one another at this time. It was once believed they howled from hunger, but we now understand that wolves howl to reinforce social bonds — to call, to connect, to remind one another that they are not alone.
I have been quietly working on the Pockets of Love project for five years. In 2026, I am moving into a different rhythm: stepping out into the world and beginning to share this work more openly. Under this Wolf Moon, I am calling to my tribe, and hoping the wolf women will hear my call.
Part of this long waiting was shaped by funding applications, with the condition that the project could not properly begin until funding was confirmed. Unfortunately, it was not — and unexpectedly, this has brought a strange sense of relief and freedom. I can reclaim this space and my power, and move forward regardless. I will be launching a fundraiser for Pockets of Love later in the spring.
The Quiet Moon: Winter, Stillness, and Ethical Beginnings
For now, I am embracing the Wolf Moon’s other name: the Quiet Moon. It reflects the nature of deep winter — peace, stillness, and quiet reflection. As I plan the fundraising, I am also making time for creative work: finalising pocket designs and stitching the very first Pocket of Love, dedicated to Jonette Boyd.
Jonette Boyd was likely a tenant worker on the Boyd estate at Portencross Castle. At that time, the castle was in use as a military base, monitoring the port and the busy cattle trade with Ireland and the Western Isles. Jonette was accused of witchcraft in 1658. We do not know why, but she may have been connected to black-market cattle trading and smuggling, which was rife in the West Kilbride parish at the time. Records tell us that she was eventually released,but an accusation of witchcraft would have hung over her and her family for decades. In November, I launched the first pilot group for the Pockets of Love project — in the Hebrides. It has brought me immense joy to share this work for the first time, and to be in connection with women who are as passionate as I am about honouring the memory of those accused of witchcraft. It has been deeply nourishing to share work in progress, techniques, and research together. This month, I will be launching another pilot group in West Kilbride. If you are interested in taking part, please email me.
An Invitation to Remember: by Story and Candlelight
On Tuesday, I will be giving an online talk about the West Kilbride witches, sharing what we know of the stories of the other six women accused here. How did Violet Mudie get her name? Who escaped on the long march to Irvine? Everyone is welcome to attend.
During the talk, I will invite attendees to light a candle in remembrance of these women and the hardships they endured. If you are unable to attend, I extend this invitation to you as well: join us in spirit. Light a candle and speak Jonette Boyd’s name aloud.
Jonette was marched on foot to Irvine to be tortured until she confessed to witchcraft, in April 1658 — when celandines were lifting their joyful yellow flowers to the early sunshine, ivy berries were turning black and ripe, peregrine falcons were circling the cliffs in search of nesting sites, and ravens were calling to their chicks.
Pockets of Love: A Living Memorial
Pockets of Love is a slow, careful act of making — both community and memorial. If you feel called to join us, there are many ways to stand within the circle: by witnessing and sharing these words; by becoming a Pocket Maker; or by offering material support that allows the work to continue and flourish. All paths are welcome.
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With love and blessings from the Wolf Moon.
Tara x
