First day of Winter...

“Welcome, winter. Your late dawns and chilled breath make me lazy, but I love you nonetheless.”
-Terri Guillemets

Winter Solstice, Mississippi River at Golden Eagle Landing, 2009 Pastel

Winter Solstice, Saturday, December 21st

Saturday will be the shortest day of 2019 and the longest night. It is also the first day of Winter. On Sunday the 22nd the days will slowly begin to grow longer again.
 
Mankind has always celebrated the Winter and Summer Solstice. Think of Stonehenge and numerous places in North America where Native Americans would mark and celebrate the solstices.  It is winter, but it is natures birth of the New Year. 

​Winter Solstice, Alone, Columbia Bottoms Conservation Area, 2011  Acrylic

Yes, I know we live in an era of digital time, and there never seems to be enough of it.  But we, as humans, should continue the tradition of celebrating the Winter Solstice. For many years now, I have found someplace quiet to celebrate, to forgive, to be forgiven, to think about the past and consider the future.  Sometimes it’s cold; sometimes it’s overcast, but the sun always sets and I know after the longest night, the sun will rise again. It's a time to awaken.

Sunset at Elephant Rocks State Park, Winter Solstice 2018, Oil

This Saturday, find a quiet place and take a minute to celebrate natures years end. On Sunday, wake up to a new year growing with hope and promise.
 
Happy Winter Solstice.
Garry

Frozen Island, Busch Wildlife, Lake 35, ​Winter Solstice 2017, 2019 Acrylic Painting