Star of Bethlehem

Some call this the Star of Bethlehem. In actuality it is two planets, Jupiter and Saturn, in their orbits around the sun that brings them very close to each other. This only happens every 800 years, so I felt very blessed to be able to witness this event. This is a view across the San Joaquin Valley, a distance of about 70 miles from where i was standing. It was covered in a heavy fog. The dark area above the fog and below the clouds is the coast mountain range. The areas of fog that are lit up are lights from the cities and towns and ranches underneath. I wish you all Peace and Joy, Love and Good Health now and in this coming year.

Hoffnung

Maria mit dem Kind steht in vielen Religionen auch als Symbol für die Erlösung von Krankheiten. Corona bedingt wird es für viele Menschen dieses Jahr doch ein sehr besonderes Weihnachten geben. Daher dachte ich, dass diese kleine Bronzefigur die Stimmung am besten trifft. Ich wünsche allen ein besinnliches Weihnachtsfest und bleiben Sie gesund.
Mary with the child stands in many religions also as a symbol for the redemption of diseases. Corona conditioned, there will be for many people this year but a very special Christmas. Therefore, I thought that this small bronze figure meets the mood best. I wish everyone a reflective Christmas and stay healthy.

Stille Weihnachten

Am vergangenen Samstag war ich abends in der Stadt, um zu fotografieren. Die Straßen waren wie ausgestorben, obwohl einige Geschäfte geöffnet hatten. Vor dieser katholischen Kirche wurde draußen ein Adventsgottesdienst gefeiert. Auf dem erleuchteten Turm spielte eine Trompeter. Das war eine unwirkliche Stimmung in einer Zeit, die in der Vergangenheit stets hektisch und laut war.

Last Saturday I was in the evening in the city to photograph. The streets were deserted, although some stores were open. An Advent service was being celebrated outside in front of this Catholic church. A trumpeter was playing on the lighted tower. It was an unreal atmosphere in a time that was always hectic and noisy in the past.