"Magic"

1000 years ago, the Vikings found hope and strength in the evergreen tree. The warriors would chop down a fir tree and bring it inside in hopes that would help them survive the darkest days of winter.

I'm certain the lighted wire structure--the tree decoration on top of Dorsey's Knob--would never have fit the bill. But this December day was warm and pretty and there were several tall spruce trees on the trek up to the knob to enjoy.

Journaling: "You brought some of the Christmas tree's magic into my life by taking me with you on a Sunday assignment to Dorsey's Knob."

Ghost Alphabet

Coloring and adhering acetate letters is a challenge to me. I tried dye sprays and acrylic paints on these and did not like the look. I loved the look though of the Krylon "Make it Stone" finishing spray, added to the top side of the letters. I've used it on beach pages before, but I thought it added that "sparkle" to this December page.

Winter Sky

"Even on the shortest days of the year, the rising and setting sun, against the blackened sky, sheds a brilliance that warms the soul." I arrive at work before the sun rises and was thrilled to see the gorgeous morning sky through the cafeteria dining room windows. I rushed to my office to grab my camera. Knowing how quickly a few seconds can make in the lighting, I did not take the time to don a coat and gloves. On that December 23rd, it was near zero degrees. When the helicopter created additional winds on landing, I about froze. But it certainly was worth it. The lower left shot was taken from our front deck on Christmas evening--another pretty, but much warmer day.

Christmas Once is Christmas Still

I waited as long as I could for the weather to cooperate so that I could visit my parents. It was 52 in Morgantown and raining. In Westernport, it was 32. My parents' driveway was a solid sheet of ice. As I was leaving, we turned so I could get a picture of us together on this Christmas Eve. Journaling: "My Mom and Dad gave us the best Christmas ever 50 years ago and that loving feeling still remains." Excerpt of poem by Phillip Brooks in Ideals Magazine:

"The sky can still remember the earliest Christmas morn.
O never failing splendor! O never silent song!
Still keep the brave earth dreaming of deeds that shall be done."