If you live in Western New York you can really tell today is the shortest day and longest night of the year. The snow is above my knees and up to my dog's belly and it's still coming down.
As long as it's the first day of winter, it feels right to see the snow fall and hear the wind blow outside. Don't cry for us California! Not until March does winter feel endless and tired. Right now the snow is a clean blanket that makes it easier to give in to the comforts of the season, like staying in your pajamas all day (why bother changing if it's just a few hours to bed time again?), curling up on the sofa with a fun paperback novel, listening to a Charlie Brown Christmas or trolling the Internet for last minute shopping. The kids are happy, too, laying down odds for the chances of another snow day from school. And, of course, there's always the hot chocolate.
May your day be is as relaxed and peaceful.
A blessed Winter Solstice to you, a night of hope and renewal.
And a Happy Hanukkah to all who celebrate the first night tonight.
