The holiday season has brought yet another appeal for Peace on Earth. For the Western Hemisphere half of Earth, at least, Peace actually happened this year! That IS a blessing.

Our coordinates remained local throughout the season, thanks to the family traveling here for an extended visit. A new addition to the party this year was Dan and Tomoko's new black lab mix, Cinder. He's an older shelter dog who not only loves being scratched, but is also a connoisseur of Christmas tree ornaments.

Cinder Studies a Wooden Snowflake Ornament

Cinder fully participated in our holiday traditions. He waited patiently by the tree for his presents, he helped Santa deliver the stocking stuffers, and he showed off his favorite present, a stuffed Orca chew toy from Brendan and Melissa. He was definitely into the holiday spirit.

News & Notes

• Our holiday was very merry! J and T enjoyed a "ladies' lunch" with our friend Noelle in Vancouver. We all rendezvoused with our niece Stephanie and her daughter Anna for another lunch. And there was ample time to sit around the table, just chatting over a glass of wine.

  

  Tomoko, Dan and Dave on His Arrival

• The snowfall very early on New Years morning produced a rich variety of textures in the garden.

  

  Hinoki Cypress [Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Graciosa']