Winter Solstice 2012

Every moment of light and dark is a miracle.

Walt Whitman

Winter Solstice:  the shortest day of the year in the northern hemisphere; the first day of winter.

Today in Bellingham, sunrise is at 8:01AM and sunset is at 4:16PM, giving us just a little over eight hours of daylight.  But during most days now, daylight is not all that light.

At this time of year, we usually have clouds and rain, so daylight is more of a dim light, frequently more like twilight than daylight.

My family does not celebrate the winter solstice other than to acknowledge that winter is officially here, even though the weather has been winter-like for quite awhile.  Personally, I always rejoice a little inside just knowing that the days will be getting longer.  However, we surround ourselves with lights at this time of year in honor of Christmas. 

Laura and Bryan decorate the yard with lights and deck the house with lighted garlands throughout.  The Christmas tree shines with lights reflecting off of glass ornaments, and the fireplace provides both light and warmth during these cold, dark days.

Best and brightest of all is the light of the love we share with each other here at home and with the friends and family with which we have been blessed.

Cindy