Clear brisk nights, the smell of wood smoke in the air, brilliant stars and Boötes (Bow-owe-teez). Commonly known as a Herdsman, I think of him more as an old friend. Boötes shows up in early December and warmly ushers in the Christmas season. He’s one of the most obvious, well known, and ancient of constellations. Residing between the Big Dipper and Hercules, he is the keeper of the brightest star in the Northern Hemisphere, Arcturus. Following the arc of the Big Dipper’s handle, one can, “Arc to Arcturus, and speed on to Spica”. Arcturus is another great celestial friend who’s SHA often shows up in my star sight reductions. I love Boötes!