As I look East out my computer window, I am watching the sun come up in the southernmost point on the horizon. From here on out (to June 21), good ol' sol will march north (left) a little more each day. I love observing the sunrise.

Of course, it will take a couple of weeks to notice any difference in it's position at sunrise. Solstice literally means "sun stands still". Like a yoyo at the bottom of its fall, it takes awhile before the sun appears to move back north.

Actually, it's the earth's revolution (not "rotation" which some TV person mistakenly said) and it's 23.5 degree axis tilt that makes all this solstice/equinox thing happen.
Elementary, my dear Watson. Yet, the common man has little understanding of the causes, let alone a comprehension of the science (astronomy) involved.

Rachel Maddow did a miserable job last night in trying to explain how the whole solstice thing works. This coming from a former 7th grade science teacher. I failed, too, in trying to explain and demonstrate the "magic" of seasons. For 32 years I tried new techniques to get the lesson across to blank stares (and minds?) of our youth. I often wonder how many kids actually got it. Did you?

Anyway, today is MY holiday, MY Christmas, if you will. I am currently celebrating as I watch the sun rise, listening to inspirational classical music, drinking my coffee (and typing this out). After all, Christmas was stolen from the solstice celebrations of the ancients. We know Jesus wasn't born on December 25. That's all manufactured to coincide with the real reason for the season.

I don't mind sharing my special day. We're all in it together, whether we like (or understand) it or not. Winter, here we come! Enjoy and HAPPY SOLSTICE everyone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!