Over the woodlands brown and bare, Over the harvest-fields forsaken, Silent, and soft, and slow Descends the snow. ~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
December 19, 2022 - Fennville, MI - Berries
In the silent woods
after a passing snowstorm -
how red berries gleam!
December 15, 2022 - Azle, Texas - Mistletoe
December 15, 2022. I saw this pretty mistletoe hanging from a tree on my mom’s property in Azle, Texas. Don’t think I’ve ever seen one with so many berries. I read that in an English tradition - you could kiss anyone standing under the mistletoe, as long as it still had berries on it. After you kissed the person, you were supposed to remove a berry. Once they’re all gone, the kissing stops. So, it’s a good idea to pick a branch with a lot of berries!
December 18, 2022 - Fennville, Michigan - Returned home to snow
December 18, 2022. Home again! Came home to a snowstorm. This snowfall caused delays and an uncomfortably long wait on the plane, but I got here safely and I’m loving it now. It feels like Christmas.
December 18, 2022 - Pier Cove Trust Trail - Maple Leaf
December 19, 2022 - Fennville, MI - Spray of Pine
December 20, 2022 - Lake Michigan- Icicle on fallen tree
December 21, 2022- Fennville, MI - Multicolored pine needle
December 21, 2022 - Fennville, MI - Pussy willow
December 21, 2022 - Fennville, MI - Grain
Winter solstice and the Christmas holiday make me want to slow down and appreciate every little thing. I tried to do that this past week. Noticing little things: a leaf in snow, an icicle, or a dried tip of ornamental grass. Just a pause to pay attention. To breathe in the cold air. To sleep a little longer, to listen to some holiday music, or just stare out the window daydreaming. Feel the sacredness of life and be grateful for mine.
I am grateful for you taking the time to read this! I hope you have a wonderful Christmas if you celebrate. Even if you don’t, I hope you can gather with your loved ones and cozy up. Enjoy a few minutes of quiet in a busy season.