Solstice Morning

 

12/21/24 About 7:15 a.m., Maple Leaf neighborhood

I don’t know if it’s because the clouds have become thicker or because I’m alone in the house now, but this year’s Big Dark seems bigger than ever. Although we won’t see a difference for months, it’s still a relief to know that we’re finally past the winter solstice.

As my coffee dripped, I looked across the street at the house on the corner. That neighbor doesn’t usually decorate for Christmas (in fact, I think last year was the first time), and this year she was quite late and much simpler – a strand of lights only on the front bushes. On the shortest day of the year, however, I’ll take any light I can get.

Wishing you a peaceful and well-lighted Christmas!