...that the cable going to the lamppost is broken. If it's piped, a new cable can be pulled through. If it's buried, get out a shovel.

If it is the wire that's buried, it will have a pipe around it this time thanks to you!

2) Remove the fasteners securing the porch light.
3) Verify that there are no loose insulated conductors, then tighten any wire nuts you find in the box.
90% odds this fixes the problem.
4) unscrew the lamp post fixture and tighten the wire nuts you find here. If that doesn't solve the problem, the buried wire is probably broken.

We've already done part of what you've said but REALLY appreciate the input. I just hate that lamp not working in the winter when it gets dark so early. I have a hunch we may have to dig.

when you're trying to diagnose the problem. Please post when you figure out what happened.

I hit the breaker and then use that to verify there's no juice in the line.

My house was wired by a crazy person.

We'll be back home on Monday and give it all a try.