Solstice

After the longest night of the year, the sun rose in a blaze of glory

The Three Sisters above the fog-blanketed Willamette Valley.

When I got up, I saw the orange-pink sky through the trees. I grabbed my camera and headed for the clear-cut next door.

My traversing icy brambles in PJs and boots was rewarded with a rare view of morning alpine glow on the Middle Sister.

 Along with the Three Sisters, I could see Mt Washington...

Three fingered Jack and even Mt. Jefferson way to the north.

Start of a new bright year.

And the other surprise brought by Ma Nature: a dusting of snow blanketing the grass...

 on this first day of winter.

"Solstice reminds us that we are intertwined through a long history of seasons and cycles in our shared landscapes. The word solstice comes from the Latin words for “sun” and “to stand still.” Even though it represents the onset of deep winter, Solstice brings an end to the darkest days of winter, and welcomes in the growing light that helps us keep heart.Though winter cold can sometimes disconnect us from nature, ancient holiday traditions remind us to bring fragrant evergreens indoors, and take comfort in the light of candles and the warming ritual of fire to keep connection alive. Light to illuminate the things we hold sacred, and good cheer to help us celebrate the gifts each season brings.Our agricultural roots remind us that even the earth must rest in winter, and that a new year offers us a chance for introspection, connection and renewal."~John Forti
Best wishes for the turning of the season and happy Solstice!