One of the best things about shooting the Moon this time of the year is that, yes, it stays light so late. And it is particularly special when the full Moon falls on the Solstice for the first time in more than fifty years!
Solstice Season
It's Solstice season in the Rocky Mountains. These shortest days of the year, the sun sets around 4 o'clock in the afternoon, and after that...Well, occasionally, you hear the howling of the local wolf packs, which makes that hot chocolate waiting for you at home all the more desirable. But, at the same time, this is that same season when the orange sunsets look all the more unreal against the moody-blue clouds, as you hike down, past the screeching ski lift, until the glistening lake becomes visible.
Winter Solstice
If we're lucky, the sun goes down just after 4 pm at the end of December. That is because quite often the Great White North is filled with the Great Grey Snow Fog.
Even though I generally like the cold seasons, this lack of sunlight makes me think:
182 more days until summer!
Happy Winter Solstice!
Summer Solstice
Here is an impromptu summer-solstice e-card for all those who appreciate (or practice) the Old Ways.
Yes, I actually braided macaroni!
I've also used daisies and rose hip, greens, blueberries, a raspberry for the mouth, dried seeds, ink pen, and the uruz rune.
And now...to watch the sunset!