12/21/2025
Happy Winter Solstice ๐ winter is one of my most favorite times of year. I look forward to the crisp, dry, winter air and grey skies and trees with no leaves almost as much as I look forward to the first tomato of year.
I love the introspection of winter, the invitation to pause and focus on just "being" -- slower mornings, longer nights, mid-day walks, candles burning, a decorated tree in the living room, making extra time for me and my loved ones, warm pots on the stove... I am so grateful that the Earth provides these moments for us to stop, listen, and be. I am also grateful for the ability to recognize these moments and listen.
While today is our shortest day of sunshine all year, it also marks something much more special and hopeful. Our experience of the sun has been slowly shortening since the summer solstice at the end of June. But on the Winter Solstice, all of this changes. Instead of the sunshine gradually shortening it begins to gradually lengthen!
We celebrate the return of the sun, a new light on the horizon, on the Winter Solstice! What a beautiful aspect to focus on through the rest of December, and into the new year. Fresh, new, moments of sunshine to feed our plants, our growing spaces, and our own sweet little selves.
Looking for ways to celebrate the Winter Solstice? Here are a few suggestions,
๐ Watch the sunrise
๐ Go for a long walk or hike (it will be warm and sunny on Sunday!)
๐ Bring a clipping or two of an evergreen inside (rosemary, and other perennial herbs are great options)
๐ Burn a candle or have a bonfire at night
๐ Have a friend over for lunch or dinner, feast together!
๐ Eat a pomegranate, a fruit known for its abundance!
๐ Drink something filled with good, warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, vanilla, etc.
Enjoy the welcoming of the new season and all it brings!