Scenes from December

Solstice nears, and I live in a winter wonderland. Give me cups of tea, light music playing low in the background, candles on the counter, fresh greenery and wreaths, a garden slumbering, twinkling lights masquerading as holiday magic, rabbit prints frozen in the snow, moonlight shining through the window, and afternoon naps.

The kitchen garden caught between fall clean up and our first real snow fall.

Lavender insulated by mulched leaves and fresh snow. Here’s hoping all seven plants survive the extra cold winter we expect this year.

Paper stars for the tree. Made several years ago, but they still hang as decorations even now.

Temperatures plummet, night comes early, and my hands crave fresh greenery, a circular base, and ribbon. I begin the meditation of making wreaths in late November, just as the start of holidays in the US. I am lucky to have generous and loving extended family who supply me with as much wintergreen materials as I desire.

Ribbon + a wreath base fashioned out of redwood twigs.

I’ve replaced most of my mass produced seasonal decor with my own creative work, like this photo of greenery that hangs in our house during winter months.

Another gift of love from my extended family, lit with warm white light to counter dark, cold December nights.

How many different ways can I render a holiday tree?

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Thanks for reading the December edition of Roots & Vines. The best way to support my work is to leave a comment, share my photos with a friend, purchase an original photo from my online store, or join as a paying subscriber.

May the end of 2025 greet you with gentleness and generosity.

-Betsy