Wonderful Winter

I am sitting here inside the kitchen nook looking out as the snow falls and holding a cup of tea. The aroma floating through the house is of freshly baked cookies. So, I have some sense of accomplishment as I sit to just watch. It has been a couple years since I have had snow at winter time and it is mesmerizing - funny how something so simple can be so captivating.

Glad to be Here

Walking home under the stars last night made me so happy. There was something peaceful about seeing the universe stretch through the depths pinpointed by small lights. The cold and quiet also encouraged this moment of peace and ponder.
Being back in Central Oregon, I have to remember to bundle up or hold a warm drink tight in my little hands. But even these necessities have become a delight. My culture has a sentimental value this year, and I am enjoying the sounds of the holiday and smells of mixed spices.
Other moments of quiet gladness for me this last month have been attending and exiting the cinema together as family, sitting next to a crackling fire, and hunting a Christmas tree in the softly falling snow. And Stillness is the warm embrace that I am glad to be here in.
Thank you God, Bend and family for wrapping me in warmth.
Merry Christmas!