Summer solstice has come and gone. I feel relief at the slow lengthening of night even though the hottest, driest months are still ahead. Coastal California’s June gloom gentles the mornings with a soft cloud blanket; this will end soon, and mornings will find me with curtains drawn, cardboard wedged against the windows to insulate … Continue reading so much tending to do

I am awake at an unusually late hour on this longest night of the year. It is winter solstice, and everywhere are messages of rest and quiet. I believe in rest. I believe in quiet. I believe in these long dark nights inviting deep reflection. But also, in my zone 9b microclimate, where I nurture … Continue reading what winter means