Timely blossoms of grandma's Christmas cactus. (photo/Cindy Hadish)

Timely blossoms of grandma’s Christmas cactus. (photo/Cindy Hadish)

No holiday can be picture-perfect, but even with Iowa’s bone-chilling weather, we can find reasons to be grateful.

From the last few weeks, here are scenes of the season that make me appreciate being a homegrown Iowan.

During the holidays and into the New Year, may you find joy in all of the little things that life has to offer and see the beauty that nature can bring.

Indian Creek Nature Center, Nature's Noel. (photo/Cindy Hadish)

Indian Creek Nature Center in Cedar Rapids, Nature’s Noel (photo/Cindy Hadish)

Mount Vernon Winter Farmers Market (photo/Cindy Hadish)

Mount Vernon Winter Farmers Market (photo/Cindy Hadish)

Mount Vernon Confections (chocolate Nirvana!)

Mount Vernon Confections – chocolate Nirvana! (photo/Cindy Hadish)

Clouds covering a recent full moon. (photo/Cindy Hadish)

Clouds covering a recent full moon on a cold Iowa night. (photo/Cindy Hadish)

Traditions carrying on in Czech Village in Cedar Rapids. (photo/Cindy Hadish)

Traditions carrying on in Czech Village in Cedar Rapids. (photo/Cindy Hadish)

One of my favorite things: people who see the connection between historic preservation and conserving our natural resources. (photo/Cindy Hadish)

One of my favorite things: people who see the connection between historic preservation and conserving ourĀ  resources, with lots of holiday spirit, too! (photo/Cindy Hadish)

Local food, from Iowa farmers. (photo/Cindy Hadish)

Local food, from Iowa farmers. (photo/Cindy Hadish)