Winter Solstice

This is the best of times. The Palmer Sun wakes very slowly these days and stretches low in the sky, allowing for more than one sunrise in most locations. The Sun (finally) leisurely peaks around 12:30 and then immediately turns around and begins to nap and set simultaneously. Once again there are usually several long, lengthy, consecutive sunsets. It is a special kind of solstice light all day, which is tinted golden. We are so fortunate to see this phenomena in Palmer; our bonfires and Solstice parties are genuine in our appreciation.

Chasing Sunlight—It’s Palmer’s shortest time of sunlight. Peak, peek, peak, peek is the quiet cadence of our sun’s daily route, always squat in the sky. It peeks over and over our many mountain peaks for about five hours a day. If you missed the first sunrise, then you still have a chance to catch one of the next several or catch the long, achingly beautiful sunset. Solstice really is a holy time in Alaska. Honoring the sun, what little there is, makes us appreciate its true value.

Celebrate—Palmer celebrates Solstice in a quiet and private manner. There are no large community bonfires, festivals or Sun Salutation events. Many gather privately or with friends to honor the darkness. Some have little fires to celebrate the sun’s return. Although dark, it is a joyous day, because we all know that henceforth the daylight will grow until it becomes a constant companion by June’s summer solstice. And likewise the public parties and festivals will resume in full flavor. Until then, stay safe, stay warm. Peak up at the sun! Happy Solstice!

Mirror—The abundance of dark sometimes reflects personal situational troubles. When this is clear, it is a healthy thing to realize that indeed our light is coming back. Perhaps we have hit the apogee of the gloaming. The bounty of snow is a pure gift and insulation metaphorically because it provides a cushion and a respite from the darkness.

Palmer Post Office Joy—The lines are long. The parking lot is full. What could be a ridiculous wait-in-line is actually a bit of community fun. Sometimes cookies are offered. Sometimes musicians gift us with song. Always there is discussion. And usually laughter. New friends are made. Neighbors reconnect. Our postal workers are patient and kind despite overwhelming demands. Shopping local decreases the amount of package importation. And if you do mail ordering, remember the post office wait— is part of the price. Don’t complain and instead enjoy it.

Sharing Space—All this magnificent snow has reduced road width. And it has forced wildlife to share our human travel-paths and roads. Be prepared to meet up with some creatures when you’re walking or driving. They have a right to travel as well. So be careful. Be aware and respectful of sharing space.

Thank you for the Lights—It is a joy to see all the little lights in this time of darkness. All contributors must be thanked. It might be just a single strand of little white lights on the bottom branch. Or it might be a full color, fiery-flanked tree. The shops are absolutely glowing. The Palmer Water Tower is a beautiful volunteer work in progress. The city streets are welcoming. Thank you to all for the lights.

This is the Week—Happy Christmas. Happy Hanukkah. Happy Solstice. Eat a cookie and be grateful for this beautiful world in which we are allowed to live. Be safe and careful “P” town!

Barbara Hunt is both Palmer writer and artist. She works hard to keep the robust pulse of Palmer, Alaska. She shares the good stuff on the weekly Palmer Alaska Buzz in the Mat Su Valley Frontiersman and daily on the Palmer Alaska Buzz Facebook Group. Contact at bhunt@mtaonline.net or text 907.315.3222.