Frigid skies

The night sky is beautiful in that way it gets only when it's really cold. Venus looked shockingly bright next to the crescent moon this week-- like a jet's landing light when I pointed Sky Guide at it.

Except for Miami, the entire country is cold.  It's only 19 this morning in Seattle, but below zero over in eastern Washington.  I talked to Amanda yesterday and she said they are staying warm and cozy, although their outdoor cats "Mama Kitty" and "Jack" are hanging around inside by the wood stove.

Oh, did you know Christmas is coming?  It seems like we jump into high speed earlier each year! The parking lots and stores are already jammed, and heaven help you if you need to buy a simple potholder or something. I haven't even started to make cookies for Boeing Field.  The house isn't decorated and the Christmas tree isn't up, but this afternoon we're going to a Christmas concert at the Symphony for some light festive music.  Like being in the eye of the storm for a couple of hours...