Fall Equinox & Family Rituals

In a few weeks, our family will celebrate our third year as "Punatics" -- those wild and wonderful, resourceful and creative people who live in the Puna District on Hawaii's Big Island.  And, as with most families of any size, there are the Family Rituals to mark special occasions.  Now, this is true no matter the size or composition of the family -- including two people and three Pembroke Welsh Corgi dogs.


One of our rituals is triggered by the low fall sun angle. At the Spring Equinox, the early morning sun peeks over the horizon in the east, but from a southeasterly angle shining diagonally across a light path into one area of the house.  Since Fall has always been my favorite season, I am delighted that for the Fall Equinox, the sun rises  in the east, of course, but many degrees more to the northeast and so this time of year in the early morning, I can feel its light on my face.  Just now, just at this time of year.

L to R - Reba Bo Beba, Ao Pokole Poko, & Princess I'ilani

So, tonight being the Equinox, we have two special lights -- our holiday lights that loop across the front of the house -- and are turned on this time of year.  The other lovely light comes from the glow of the lighted chandelier that belonged to Phil's grandma -- as seen through the leaded glass window that also belonged to her.  Before Phil's mother, Margaret, died last year, she bequeathed both these family treasures to Phil, and we are delighted to have them as they help mark the turning of another season.

The "seasons" in Hawaii may admittedly be subtle, but our bodies seem to respond to seasonal changes -- even the Corgyn seem willing to turn in a bit earlier.