Photos: Big sky color marks the winter solstice sunrise

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Clouds glow over the Chugach Mountains in this view from Midtown Anchorage on winter solstice, December 21, 2017. (Marc Lester/ ADN)

Winter solstice marks the longest night and the shortest day of the year. Going into the new year, the light grows, slowly at first, then gaining speed as spring nears.

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Give thanks for the winter solstice. You might not be here without it.