Winter Comes to Carlsbad California
Yesterday was the first day of winter, the longest night and shortest day of the year. Now to start watching the days grow longer!
Winter was ushered in by a decent amount of rain (lots of smiles about that) and slightly warmer temperatures, but the signs of winter have been around for a number of weeks.
Here in Carlsbad we see all the preparations for the holidays, with a multitude of decorations, just like elsewhere around the country, including decorated palm trees and an occasional cactus.
Wetsuits have reappeared on surfers now that the air, and ocean, is quite a bit chillier. Carlsbadians have taken to wearing more clothes – shoes, even with socks, although die-hards are still in their flip flops!
Long sleeved shirts and sometimes jackets combine with shorts. And Ugg boots, sometimes worn with shorts and short sleeved shirts, are a common sight.
We complain, somewhat in earnest, about how much chillier it is (OK so low 50s during the day is not bad, but we still grouse a bit), fireplaces are in use, and we even turn on the heat from time to time, in our houses and in our cars.
The heat lamps at restaurants are fired up regularly on outdoor patios, although more people are dining inside.
Many of the leaves have turned colors, or brown, and have fallen and there are fewer flowers. The lemons on our potted lemon trees look sorta like Christmas decorations.
All in all winter’s arrival was pretty uneventful. And with Christmas just a couple of days away the last minute frantic gift and food shopping has turned every parking lot into a crowded, frenetic free for all. Part of the fun, I guess.
Wishing everyone the best of the holiday season, however and wherever you celebrate.
And a Happy New Year!
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