With only eight hours of light, tomorrow is deemed the shortest day of the year here in the northwest. Just this last week, our Compassion staff in Peru let me know that it was warm and sunny in Lima and to be sure and bring the sunscreen for our January trip, but that trip seems far away right now as I sit in the quietness surrounded by the fresh winter snow.
Vacation is great, and it’s nice to take time before Christmas to slow down and prepare for what is to come. The shopping is finished, my work is on hold, and nothing seems to matter tonight as we sit and enjoy the fire.
These are the moments of life that are tender and beautiful. 
I love the winter snow in the northwest, and though it can be dark, my little girls brighten it all up. Winter is here!
Happy Christmas to you and your family. Have a lovely time. I enjoy reading your blog.
Is that Grace in the 2nd photo?
She sure looks like Judy in that pose….just a thought