The Winter Solstice
The Winter Solstice is today, December 21, 2019. The exact moment here in Washington State is 8:19 pm, when the North Pole is tilted the farthest away from the sun. Today our sunrise was at 7:56 and our sunset will be at 4:20, but not that you can tell.
Not only is it the shortest daylight of the year, but yesterday was scientifically measured as the darkest day on record. This morning is much the same. It was also one of the rainiest. Here's why.
We have been stranded in an atmospheric river, coming in from off the Pacific. Temperatures range for 40 to 50, with steady rain in the lowlands and snow in the high elevations of the mountains.
It's dark. It's wet. Supposedly at noon on the winter solstice you would have a very long shadow due to the low angle of the sun. But there is no shadow today, only your reflection in the puddles.
But there are bright spots: a leaf still clinging, Winter Jasmine in bloom.
And roses!
This afternoon we'll gather at SIL Jan's home for an early Christmas before she departs to be with California family. It's a day for "bon fires" in the indoor fireplace, and feasting with family. Solstice will be celebrated.
Happy Solstice, everyone. In our dark northern days, let your inner light shine! Those of you in the sun, appreciate it!
It is my birthday today and I have gotten a call or two, some cards and going out for diner and a movie. It is cold here, but not rainy like your neighborhood.
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday! A solstice baby you were. Have a great day.
DeleteIt is a cold windy rainy day here in Hawaii nei today. Solstice isn't that big a deal here although it gets dark by 6:30 pm. Our daughter got married just about this time last year on the beach and then a celebration party with croquet games on the green at her elementary school. Several of her in laws and friends came from Seattle and loved the good weather, as did she because she transplanted herself in Seattle a few years ago.
ReplyDeleteI am so glad that her wedding was last year because of the perfect sunny weather - versus this year which has been intermittently windy, rainy, or both. Happy Solstice to you and yours. I enjoy your posts no matter the time of year.
Yes, Happy Solstice, LInda. It's been pretty dark around here, and I've been staying indoors for the most part. I did walk 2.6 miles with the ladies this morning, but I opted out of a second lap around Lake Padden, as I was already wet. The rain has stopped now, though, and that's a good thing! :-)
ReplyDeleteYesterday certainly was dark and wet as was today. We went on a Christmas Home tour and dodged puddles as we walked around. I hope you had a good time at your SIL's place celebrating the solstice.
ReplyDeleteHave a wonderful weekend!
ReplyDeleteThe winter solstice is a happy time when we mark the coming of better days. Ancient people had large celebrations on this day.
ReplyDeleteHappy Solstice. Can't wait for these short days to get longer and brighter. I don't think we have seen the sun 5 times this month.
ReplyDeleteHappy Solstice! I'm definitely looking forward to days with more light and hopefully more sunshine.
ReplyDeleteWe had a beautiful day yesterday. We are having above average temps so I am not complaining. Happy solstice.
ReplyDeleteI look forward to days with more light!
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