The winter solstice is a time for celebrating light. The winter solstice occurs because of the Earth’s tilt as it rotates around the sun. When the Northern Hemisphere tilts away from the sun, the nights last longer.
Our “season of light” always begins with music. This is the 25th year my husband faithfully compiled a festive mix of tunes. Gone are the days of homemade CDs, now we stream a playlist. The cover art is a homage to the year past. This year’s is in honor of my mom; a nurse, hobbyist pilot, and lover of all things Wizard of Oz. Neighbor Mr. Sean gets the credit for another year of amazing artwork.
I spent most of December preparing Paperwhites and Amaryllis. If you received a Celadon Hill Amaryllis, it can be saved to bloom each season. The soil regenerates the bulb, like a battery getting charged. The trick is to let it sleep in the fall (in a bag in the dark) for 8-10 weeks.
Paperwhite bulbs are usually one and done because they are forced to bloom in water. I’ve heard the bulb will make a green stem, but not always a flower.
I was lucky to get in a day trip to New York City and a fun Holiday Hustle. Got to keep moving during the dark days!
I was spoiled by my husband with a 24 day Advent Calendar of my favorite things. Notice the wrapped bottles of wine, calendar, chips, and boxes of sugar free chocolate? Yep, all good stuff!
I treated myself to a Christmas Mouse Poinsettia from Schoolhouse Fallston. The rounded petals are unique!
I learned that the period between Christmas and New Year’s Day is called Twixmas.
The season of light was made special by you. I so appreciate your support. Thank you for spreading the word about locally grown flowers, sharing pics and asking for more flower farm experiences. Growing flowers lights me up and I love to share it with you.
These days are a time for rest. Planning for 2025 is up next and Archie is spending Twixmas just like this!
All the best to you and yours for a happy and healthy 2025!
Promise
By Jackie Kay
Remember, the time of year
when the future appears
like a blank sheet of paper
a clean calendar, a new chance.
On thick white snow
You vow fresh footprints
then watch them go
with the wind’s hearty gust.
Fill your glass. Here’s tae us. Promises
made to be broken, made to last.