Solstice 12.21.2010

The moon continues to emerge from a total eclipse at 4
http://helenair.com/news/national/article_3ed99a24-81e8-5fc3-aadf-d77df724fb23.html

Skywatchers got an early holiday present this year: A total eclipse of the moon.
Hanging high in the sky, the moon slowly turned from bright silver into a red disk early Tuesday.
A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth casts its shadow on the full moon, blocking the sun's rays that otherwise reflect off the moon's surface. Some indirect sunlight still pierces through to give the moon its eerie hue.
The 3 1/2 hour celestial spectacle was visible from North and Central America where skies were clear. Portions of Europe and Asia only caught part of the show.
The totality phase _ when the moon was completely immersed in Earth's shadow _ lasted 72 minutes.
Since the year's only total lunar eclipse coincided with winter solstice, the moon glowed high in the sky.
The last time this occurred was more than three centuries ago on Dec. 21, 1638. It will happen again on Dec. 21, 2094, according to U.S. Naval Observatory spokesman Geoff Chester.

The longest day of the year has passed and now, we are welcoming all the light we receive. Francesca keeps saying, "mama, its dark outside again". all I can say is yes, it is winter time. She replys, "why?" I guess she is holding on to the long days of summer filled with walks and farmer markets (saturdays still receive the good morning, "its farmers market day!") and fun outside. we have been trying to have fun inside but all i seem to do these days is lay around a hack and cough...frannie is a little too. we have filled in the time enjoying the moonlight. with the BIG countdown to christmas this week, we have been distracted from the darkness by the thought of opening the presents under the tree and having some precious moments with our two year old. the christmas pageant for freya will also be a highlight for frannie.

today, the children at jacobs ladder preschool will be celebrating too. the little angels and shepards are about to celebrate the season together and enjoy some silly fun and singing (Lea will be bringing treats to aid in this). next week frannie will be at home with us and taking a break from all her school friends. she hasnt gone that long without them-it will interesting how many playdates will result from the time away. her friends are everything to her. we are so lucky to have landed with a peaceful and joyful place to learn. thank you teacher Jan!

we hope everyone is filled with the spirit of christmas and the joy of the season and the return of the light. Happy Solstice!