Is there anything more wonderful than our collective efforts to deck the halls with shimmering lights during the shortest days of the year? Come December, artificial brightness runs along eaves and doorways, up and around trees, and in between every dark corner of our neighborhoods with gusto. To our delight our new SoCal town has brought the Simply Sensational along every street. What better reminder that darkness holds little sway with even a speck of illumination? These days, with the billionaire bros recent acquisition of our presidency, I’ll gladly accept an extra dose of cheer when it comes my way. After all, “In the darkest times, hope is something you give yourself.”– Albus Dumbledore (J.K. Rowling), “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.” Hope, even in the form of white lights is most welcome, everywhere. Apparently, I am not alone in my appreciation and gratitude for the nature of radiance among the shadows.

“The darker the night, the brighter the stars.” – Fyodor Dostoevsky, “Crime and Punishment” (1866)

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” – Martin Luther King Jr., “Strength to Love” (1963)

“In the midst of darkness, light persists.” – Mahatma Gandhi, Speech (1947)

“The night is darkest just before the dawn.” – Thomas Fuller, “A Pisgah-Sight of Palestine and the Confines Thereof” (1650)

“There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.” – Leonard Cohen, “Anthem” (1992)

“Stars can’t shine without darkness.” – D.H. Sidebottom, “Reveal” (2013)

Of course my favorite holiday home is the very place where we will gather together next week, decorated by my sweet brother and his wife, and generously offered to us on this merry occasion.

May you find your light this dark December, however you chose to celebrate, xxoo