Of course it was. This year was the nicest Solstice that any of us can remember. And I wonder: is it despite how hard things were this week, or perhaps because of it? I suspect a little of each.

There were handmade gifts to share, candles and luminaries to dip, and a delicious local dinner to enjoy on the most bling-tastic table every set in this little farmhouse. (Sparkly! Gold! Placemats!) There was a hike to the forest as darkness fell, and a campfire as the sun slipped out of sight behind the trees. 

It was as close to a perfect celebration as I have ever known. 

And as we all fell to sleep late last night, so satisfied and deeply tired at the end of the day, we each rattled through our lists of all the things we didn't find time for. The bird feeders and popcorn garlands; the gingerbread houses; the board game; the midnight ski. And we decided that – this year anyway – we're extending our solstice for another day. Because none of us are ready to let this go.

Wishing you love and light, my beautiful friends. Thank you for coming here day after day, year after year, and sharing in our journey. I'm so glad to have you come along.

Love,

Rachel