As I write this, the planet is reaching that part of its 365.25-day solar orbit when--due to a tilted axis (thank god!)--the northern half points away from the sun the most. This astrophysical event was (and is) observed by pagan peoples as the start of a new year, a more logical celebration than the one we anticipate January 1. It is believed that the Christian calendar observed the birth of the Messiah near the solstice to gain a degree of competitive advantage over the pagan bacchanalia. Indeed, several customs associated with Christmas--bringing evergreens and trees indoors, burning candles, etc.--have pre-Christian significance.
This photo of alumni/ae czar Alex Estin with her beloved Labs was sent as a holiday e-card.
Before our holiday break, Mike Henriques and Betsy Paine hosted an open house for students, faculty, staff and children. Santa Claus made a surprise appearance to the delight of little ones and some adolescent elves.
Holiday cookies and cheer were served up as folks passed through or lingered for carols around the piano.
I'm not sure what we're seeing here:
A lot of students had a lot of fun!
