Yesterday was 12th night and today is Epiphany. These are religious holy days, but also markers of season and place.

My mother completed her crèche today. Michael and I lit our wreath for the last time and sang of mages seeking a perfect light. Reflecting on the search for light and understanding seems timely in these dark days.

Christmas Day is a big birthday bash in our house. Having two two year olds added a certain element of delightful chaos.

After a while, Petra needed to find a quiet corner. We have those too!

Temperatures in the 50s made finding cool spaces a challenge, but after last year’s snow, was a welcome change.

We spent Boxing Day babysitting Felix.

We all arose before sunrise on the 3rd Day of Christmas: Michael to babysit Felix again and me to care for the livestock.

The 5th Day of Christmas brought us amazing hoarfrost.

Michael hunted on the Sixth Day. We received a small snowfall. No one was stirring. Not even a mouse.

On the 7th Day, we welcomed in the New Year with luminaria.

On the 9th day we moved our 400 lb. gun safe so we can finish our window opening project.

On the 10th Day I repaired this gorgeous necklace my mother sent me, which arrived with a number of the delicate birds in a broken state.

On the 11th Day (January 4th) I was doing my physical therapy exercises for my right leg when my left knee failed me. I later read that stairs (the exercise I was doing) is hard on knees.

We spent the next two days in a variety of doctors offices, which resulted in the not surprising news that I have arthritis in my knee. The pain is due to either an injured meniscus (that cushion behind the kneecap) or LCL (one if the tendons that keeps the knee stable). I have a knee brace that has allowed me to limp around the house. Michael has had to shoulder my chores on top of his own, as well as helping me with socks and other common items that suddenly are beyond my reach. It is good that PT has strengthened my right leg, else I would be even more disabled than I am! It is also good that we have a bunch of medical equipment, such as a walker and a shower chair, left to us by Irene. I have been using the grab bars we installed and have rejoiced in having space to use that walker and shower chair. I didn’t think I would be needing all of this quite so soon. I’m really happy my knee didn’t fail while I was out walking Zeke. I gratefully accept the blessings of the season and look forward to getting back on my feet and bending the knee.