It is a starry, starry night out here in the country.

Just cold enough to make the snow twinkle back at the stars above.

The Little Dog and I have been out walking, - our evening constitutional. He gets such delight out of plunging his little bearded chin into the snow that he forgets to attend to business, and we occasionally have to make two trips down the road, admiring the heavens all the while.....

During the day we try to slow down time so that we can give some clarity and meaning to preparing for Christmas. I am doing less, and yet more involved in what I do, - baking shortbreads, wrapping gifts, putting away clutter to make room for Christmas decorations. The top of the piano is bare, awaiting the nativity scene, and life is good.....