After service today, I strolled through the farmer’s market, as I often love to do. Green all the way today: some great looking French beans (the thin ones) and some fresh celery (with celery it is always important to buy organic, as it tends to soak up everything). And yes: besides the nourishing vegetables — a glazed donut too — not organic.

On the way to the car, I walked by a bank that always has some stuffed bears in the window that make me smile. To my surprise: two polar bears, instead of the customary three black bears! A pleasant arctic change of pace. To keep the cold in perspective though: I then saw a man tying his Christmas tree to the top of his car: “Pretty cool, tying a Christmas tree to a surf rack — only in California”,  he said to me and grinned, as he saw me looking at the tree logistics.

Today is the 2. Advent: symbolized by the candle of peace — the birth of Christ.

Have a blessed Sunday and week. In Jesus name, Amen.