As I am writing this blog, winter has begun.  Winter officially starts on December 21, 6:03 p.m. EST.  What exactly goes into figuring this exact time? The moment winter officially begins is when the Northern Hemisphere is the furthest distance from the sun.  So, as I say good bye to the shortest day of the year, I can welcome the longest night.  And, yes the day has been cold.

Even though the day was cold, I spent some time outdoors this afternoon.  When they came and harvested the fields, the water was high in certain areas which prevented all the corn to be picked. So, I went out to the back property and hand-picked two buckets of corn which I can use later on to find the wildlife.  Feeding the birds, squirrels and other little critters is one of my favorite pastimes.

I also trek around the back property and took some different photos.  I did spot about seven Whitetail Deer (Does), they were on the run. However, I like the fact that they are returning to the area after the hunting season.  The deer always hide down the river banks during that time.  I miss seeing them outback.

I know a few people will yell at me for this: I would like to see a little snow.  The snow does not have to be in large amounts.  I would like enough to at least cover the ground.  I would like a different contrast when photographing the landscape.  The weatherman still cannot state for certainty if we are going to have a white Christmas.  I would really like one.

Happy Winter Solstice!  Stay warm during this first official wintry night.