We are now closing in on the long-awaited night of December 21, when Jupiter and Saturn will appear to overlap as they engage in their great conjunction (also referred to as the “Christmas Star”).

A conjunction occurs when planets appear incredibly close to one another in the sky because they line up with Earth in their respective orbits. While Saturn and Jupiter’s orbits bring the planets into alignment once every 20 years or so, this year marks the first time since 1623 that our solar system’s two largest planets have passed this close to one another, and will appear as though a single star in the evening sky. That is why it’s more than a simple conjunction, but rather a “great” conjunction!

If you miss it this year, you’ll have to wait until 2080 for a chance to spot it again.

Head to the beaches, or the bay to see it under some of the darkest skies, or any place where you can see the sunset and a half-hour after it.

After the winter solstice, it’s all uphill. A seasonal shift begins as days slowly lengthen and nights get shorter. The sun will steadily climb toward the long, warm days of summer.

Delivery/Pickup Service

Hattie’s Garden next delivery/pickup service will be Saturday, January 2. You will receive an email on Sunday, December 27 when the order form is ready for you.

There will be NO SERVICE for this Saturday, December 26, as we take a break for the holidays.

We wanted to take this opportunity to thank every one of our customers for their continued support throughout the year of 2020. You have enabled us to stay in business during a time when many of our fellow business owners are struggling.

Last week I went on a journey to support local businesses. I picked up Christmas presents from several local vendors and it felt really good to support my community. I was pleasantly surprised and reassured as each business had in place safe practices for Covid-19. Everyone was wearing masks, occupancy limits were in place and being honored by patrons. I had a sense that people were paying attention and being respectful to keep their germs to themselves.

I felt safe shopping locally and it gave me a sense that we will get through this together. My hope is that we all carry one another through this and come out the other side stronger as a community.

Have a safe and happy holiday time.

Yours in the garden, looking forward to the solstice,