Beautiful day here in mid-Michigan. Today is the first official day of winter. The day will be short and the night long.
But for now, the sun is shining brightly. I cannot ask for a better day, especially for this time of year.
Happy Winter Solstice, my friends.
Until next time…peace
Today, December 21, 2015, at 11:48 pm ET is the Winter Solstice officially marking the astronomical start of winter for my area here in mid-Michigan. The Winter Solstice brings the longest night and the shortest day of the year. The good aspect of the Winter Solstice is the days will slowly start getting longer again.
Earlier as I looked out my front window, the view could look less wintery. In fact, the entire day has been nothing but rain. Between the rain and the sun setting early, I can see why everyone is grumpy. Of course, add the extra stress of the Christmas season. Oh, I was really hoping for a white Christmas but I do not see that happening. I do see my yard starting to resemble a small lake. At least, the birds seem to be enjoying themselves.
I have always wanted to see a Solstice celebration at Stonehenge. I actually have that one down on my bucket list.
Until next time…peace
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.
Rebecca's Writings and Photography 