Truchas Peak (13,108′) glistens with new snow in front of the pink twilight arc (known as the “Belt of Venus“) and the blue shadow of the Earth on the outer atmosphere. January 2, 2022.
Seasons Greetings!
It is Christmas time, and although most of the US is experiencing explosive cyclogenesis (aka a “bomb cyclone”) buried in snow and extreme sub-zero temperatures, in Santa Fe, the snow is non-existent, with only a thin snow layer on the tops of the mountains. I hope the blizzards and extreme winter temperatures in the mid-west and east do not cause much more danger and grief, especially during the holiday season.
Having snow on the ground makes it feel more like Christmas to me. As I write this article, I look out the window and see people walking downtown wearing shorts, although they are also wearing jackets – it is still cold out (37 deg F) at noon.
Although I dream of a white Christmas with deep snow, frosted trees, and abundant skiing, the Christmas spirit is present. People are smiling and moving a bit slower, being more aware of the world around them. It is healthy for us all to pause and share the joy of the holiday season with those around us, including strangers.
Some of the white stuff fell in mid-November, as shown in this photo from a quiet morning hike on November 14, 2022. We have had a couple of light snow storms since then, but nothing like we used to have when snow was on the ground for much of the winter.
Beautiful pictures Love the contrast colors are so vivid thanks for the science digression the bases for all we see feel and touch natural beauty is natural pure and unadulterated 😁
Thank you, Mark!
Happy Holidays!!!
Happy Holidays, Tammy 🙂
I’m with Penny! She looks like she is having a wonderful time in the snow! Beautiful pictures and beautiful sentiments on this cold and snowy day. I hope you had a wonderful Christmas. Thank you for sharing! Have a wonderful New Year!
Penny is a great one to be with! Thank you, Marie!
I dream of a White Christmas every year but back in Western Australia we are always in shorts with the Air Conditioner cranked up to keep us cool and eating a cold lunch. In the evening after the flies have gone to bed we may crank up the BBQ to cook our dinner while having a tinny (Beer).
I always find that Christmas is a time to reflect on your year, a time to catch up with family and friends and a time to plan how you’re going to do it better in the following year.
As always your photo’s and the information you give with them are always appreciated, thank you for allowing me to view them.
Have an amazing 2023, a year of safe adventures, good health and laughter.
Thank you, Norma, I have always wondered what Christmas time was like down under. It sounds nice and peaceful.
Thank you for the calendar of your wonderful photography and wise quotes. I hung it up where I can see it every day.
Have a joyous, prosperous, and healthy New Year!