December 2: Aligning with Winter

Forest Park in the Winter

As we start the month I encourage you to take stock of what winter really looks like where you are. What time is sunset? What is the weather like? What are the plants and animals in your area doing? Don't let preconceived notions of what winter is like blind you to what's really happening. Actually observe the daylight, observe the plants and animals. Here in Portland there are still a fair number of trees with leaves on them. We have had a few winter storms, but many trees hold their leaves long into winter in this relatively mild climate. Many birds have left for the winter, but the seagulls have moved inland and are visible anywhere within view of the water, and sometimes quite a ways away if there is a good field for them to chill out in. The sun rose at 7:31 this morning and will set at 4:28 this afternoon but what time does it really get dark? What is your morning commute like? How does the short day effect your daily routine? How has winter effected your mood in the past? Do you like the chilly weather and holiday parties, or do you get blue in the dark and wet season?

As the month progresses we'll check in on these observations to see how the season is changing as we approach the solstice, the shortest day of the year. I'm as excited to hear about winter in your neighborhood as I am to tell you about winter in mine. Let me know in the comments where you are and what you are seeing outside your kitchen window on this, the second day of December.