December 1 marks the start of meteorological winter. December 21 is the winter solstice. From now until the winter solstice, there is less daylight every day. The earliest sunsets of the year are happening right now.

Now, the roses are gone; the thorns and rose hips remain. Milkweed pods are shattered, the silk and seeds waiting for the wind.

Most of the leaves on the trees have fallen, and the bare branches with a few remaining leaves have an austere and poignant beauty.

Meteorologists say it will be a LaNina winter, this year. This may mean more snow than average, here, and the warmer waters of the Lake will also have an effect on the amount of snowfall. But for now, we wait. Winter is coming. Snow is coming, but not today. Today, gray sky and cold rain.

The festive season begins. The Holiday lights and decorated evergreen trees are coming. It is the season of magic and miracles. May there be light and color, joy and laughter–may there be peace and good will.