It’s dark earlier now*, and carpets of leaves are everywhere. It’s still fall, but we’re moving relentlessly toward winter, a cold, dark season for many of us.

Our wet and cold early winter is my least favorite time of year in northern California, short days made for nothing but curling up under the covers with a fat book, a roaring fire, a cup of cocoa and the dogs.

Like a sunflower, I turn my head to catch the last bits of sunshine and warmth before they’re just a memory. And a tiny bloom of hope to look forward to in spring.

*Daylight Savings Time was Ben Franklin’s great idea. For farmers.