Solstice Greetings!

Let there be holiday lights!

Seasons Greetings All,

It's dark in these parts and wet. According to one local resident's weather station, "it's raining cats and dogs" here in Union, WA. But there are bonuses to the dark. When I leave work at 5 o'clock (on a house our Yellow Ribbon Homes crew fixed up for a client and I just listed), the neighbor's Christmas lights (above) are in full glorious view. And I spent this rainy day curating my favorite photos, all taken from my home in this stay-close-to-home year. I've converted them into two videos to share with you.

So when the mood to ooh and ahh at the beauty of the natural world on the Olympic Peninsula for 7 minutes at a stretch strikes you, pour a cup of your favorite libation and enjoy some beautiful scenery and birdlife.

It's been a difficult year for so many of us. May light and love fill your home this holiday season, even if your friends and family won't be there in person.

Wishing you well,

Cathy

Hood Canal from my home
Sunrises, sunsets, rainbows, clouds, and comets.
The view from home has been spectacular in 2020.

Waterfront Flora & Fauna
Some of our growing things & visitors this year
viewed from my Hood Canal home on Annas Bay.

I haven't had much time for writing lately, so I'm grateful for the opportunity to deliver a message at St. David of Wales Episcopal Church in Shelton each month. Here's my message from yesterday that combines my favorite Christmas ornaments growing up (the "singing" angels pictured holding their "microphones") and the Annunciation. What memories do you have of special holiday ornaments or activities?

Audiobook Recommendations
Our public libraries are doing an amazing job during the pandemic of connecting patrons to services. I've been an avid audio listener for over a decade––nothing makes chores and physical labor go faster than losing oneself in a story–– and love the Libby platform that allows me to create wishlists, place holds, and even reschedule delivery. Here are some recent favorites.