Happy Thanksgiving! And welcome to the beginning of advent. How did that happen so quickly? As we move into December we enter a state of heightened activity. While the earth prepares to sleep, we humans prepare for our holiday season. Prepping for the holiday can cause a panic for some. Is it all done? Did you find that special item you put out every year to welcome winter? What are your holiday plans, and how do you feel the presence of spirit through the season? How do you not get trapped in the hustle and bustle? Our culture pushes us to consume. Eat more cookies, buy more gifts, find more joy. What can we do to feel the real presence of spirit in this time? I urge you to STOP. Stop it all. Wrap up in your favorite warm coat, take the hand of your most loved and take a walk. Breathe, and search for the presence.  

Christmas and mid winter holidays for thousands of years give people the opportunity to embrace the light in the coldest and darkest of days. A time to observe all we have done through the year and find warmth and light in our families and love. 

What is your favorite tradition for Christmas? When do you feel the presence of December and mid winter? For me I wander the woods at sunset. If it is snowing even better. The cold air and tiny flakes reflecting in the moonlight. The gentle song of wind though branches. Cold, Alone, Quiet, Perfect. That crunch of dry leaves under my feet and the bite of wind on my face, brings me to a place of pure presence. I am here. I breathe. I look for the light and sparkle of nature in the woods. I revel in the warmth of that glow of nature along the tree line as the sun sets. I look for the lights. Take a few moments as you read this. Close your eyes and remember your favorite presence of the holiday. Welcome to advent everyone. A blessed holiday to all.