ALMOST SOLSTICE

Today I gathered these cones from a small cluster of pines in City Park. The same pines that I’ve seen owls perched in, way above the oaks and cypress.

I grew up near the Black Forest in Germany where snow capped evergreens were part of the winter landscape. In contrast to stark white snow, the trees sent a message of resilience.

I remember lighting my Advent’s wreath every Sunday night and praying with my Oma. The intimacy of our ritual gave me a feeling of warmth & belonging that I still cling to.

I learned early on that creating coziness or “gemütlichkeit” was a necessity if one hoped to make it through those short, dark days.

In the weeks leading up to the winter solstice, many of us find ourselves straddling the line between hope and despair.

And yet something so magical, so promising is also in the air. We can trust that.

Here’s a blessing from me to you as you find your way back to the light ✨✨✨

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