It is hard to believe that Christmas 2015 has officially come and gone when I look out my window here in Maine. The ground is bare, awaiting the first snow of the season (Monday evening or so I've heard). My parent's dog brought in the gift of a deer tick yesterday after our walk. And I've even seen a honeybee on our deck railing. Yes, Mother Nature seems to have missed the memo.

Yet, here we are, days away from the end of the year. And my what a year it has been. But I'll save the annual recap for later.

For now, I hope that all of you have had a peaceful & joyous holiday season (thus far) and have been able to relax with your loved ones much like I have.