They are so cute!

Sundown. Reflected at the lake. December. Stunning.

I spotted a cardinal around my bird feeder and I went gaga! I haven’t seen one of these vividly colored birds in 35 years! I love them!

And I grabbed my phone and took as many pics and videos as I could before it flew away.

I was delighted when I spotted the same bird/his or her cousin or sibling or…who knows? the following morning.

I’m no birding expert, but I never see a cardinal feeding in the afternoons.

Not where or what I expected for December of this year! The events of this whole year have been unexpected. But, making the best of what is still a blessing nonetheless! and grateful for beautiful friendships that have helped me along the way!

Every 25 years Rome celebrates a Jubilee, during which modern day pilgrims flock to Rome. In 2025 the city expects to have 30,000,000 visitors alone. The Jubilee effectively begins on December 25, 2024.

Make your plans accordingly! I’ll be avoiding Rome all year long!

It’s the 21st century so of course there is a website: https://www.iubilaeum2025.va/en.html

Think of doing this work!!

Waiting. Waiting. Waiting.

This is a day that will always mean a lot to me personally, as it became a part of my early art historical research and the basis for an article published in the prestigious Art Journal.

But, beyond my little life, Saint Nicholas is commemorated in the Catholic world on this day, his feast day.

Thank you, saint, for all your miracles!