The summer solstice passed last week. The longest daylight of the year. From now until the winter solstice the days will shorten, and then lengthen once again in the reliable cycle and rhythm of the universe. I can feel the change already…like hitting the peak, rounding the top, and starting the descent.

Here in the northern hemisphere we are in the throes of bounty. Fruits and vegetables, herbs, flowers, grasses all in their fullness. It’s a busy time. And the long daylight hours mean we rise a bit earlier and settle in a little later. Sometimes it feels too hot and our energy wanes. Sometimes we push through it…soaking up the sunshine along the way.

Before long I’ll notice how the sun hits the floor at our south facing sliding glass doors. It will slowly creep further and further into the living room. Mae, our cat, loves when this happens. I think maybe she is cold most of the summer, just waiting for the solar heat to warm her bones. In a few months more I’ll be the one searching out the warm sun spots. How exquisite it feels to soak in the rays.

By the time winter solstice arrives I’ll be in my cozy bear den mode. Lots of time to be still, consider, ponder. Blankets and hot tea and warm soup. Soon enough it will be time to begin the trek toward the peak. In the meantime, I am grateful for a slower pace.

I like the seasons and the rhythms of the universe. When I respond to the ebb and flow I become part of that same energy. This movement makes me feel alive. I like it!

Grateful
Paula