Approaching Advent

For outlandish creatures like us, on our way to a heart, a brain, and courage, Bethlehem is not the end of our journey but only the beginning - not home but the place through which we must pass if ever we are to reach home at last. —― Frederick Buechner, The Magnificent Defeat

The gift of Advent is on my mind as I prepare for the season ahead. Contemplating the miracle that arrived in Bethlehem provides a centering kind of strength that helps me feel calm in the midst of whatever comes my way. Do you feel it too?

Looking ahead, I know December will be a busy month, and it could be a tough one, but one event I’m particularly excited about is attending my daughter’s commencement ceremony at Washington State University. She has worked hard through some exceptional circumstances and we are so proud of her.

She had some photos taken for graduation, and this is one of my favorites.

In other news, Thanksgiving weekend has been a welcome pause from the routine. We broke tradition and decided to have halibut instead of turkey this year. Everyone pitched in with the cooking. Halibut was a whole lot easier to cook. Also, it was delicious.

The next day we went to the Apple Cup at Husky Stadium. The Cougs won. Go Cougs!

And finally, If you would like a signed copy of any of my books, there are a limited number available in my shop right now. I don't keep a large inventory, so they're only available while supplies last.

Also, if you've already bought one of my books.... thank you! I have something for you, too. I can send you a signed bookplate. All you need to do is contact me and tell me where to send it

I was more interested in the pretty neighborhoods around the university than I was in the game.

Putting up the Christmas decorations definitely gave my house a feeling of hygge. I love turning off all the bright lights and using candles and fairy lights for illumination.

The weather here in Seattle has continued to be extra dark and rainy. We have had a series of what’s being called atmospheric rivers. If it was only a little colder, it would all be snow, and I think that would be fun. Here’s to hoping. Do you love to get lots of snow?

I’ve continued with my daily poetry reading, and I picked out another favorite to share here….