The Shortest Day

 

Finally! December 21! The shortest day of the year has arrived!

Why am I excited? Because now the days get longer and longer and longer…

I know we are talking about minutes, but it’s a psychological crutch that helps me get through the cold months ahead. Don’t knock it! My calendar says “winter begins” today, and I’m just preparing for the nasty weather in my own creative way.

 

Winter always reminds me of our brief stay in Iowa. That year was our first experience with real winter weather. We had visited the snow covered mountains of California many times. Gary was an avid skier and loved the outdoors. But going to the mountains to ski and build a snowman with the kids was not the same as driving through snow to work or trudging through it to get the kids to school. We learned a lot of difficult lessons in Iowa. And we didn’t stay for a second winter!

I try to not only apply those lessons now, but to appreciate the fact that our winter weather is usually nothing compared to the conditions others face. So please know that I am praying for you to have a pain-free, accident-free, healthy winter!

 

 No complaints about yesterday’s weather! It was 74 and sunny. I filled bird baths and feeders, walked around, and enjoyed watching the geese on the pond. More of the same today, so I’m off to the cemetery to take some photos. There is also a sweet new calf just down the road, so I may have to capture a shot of him. Gary and I plan to take photos of the lights in town tomorrow night when he is off.

 

I am loving my vacation already! Days and days ahead to accomplish a few tasks, complete some projects, and do some shopping. But mostly just days to relax and enjoy!

I hope you enjoy the shortest day of the year.

 

 

Comments

[joni]

Thank you, Mary. Usually winter here in SE Mo isn't too bad, but this year it's been much chillier than normal. Happy winter solstice to you, too. May our winters be short and without ice!

[Megan]

The national forecast has you chilling down soon so stay warm and safe.

Wishing us all a safe winter with or without snow.