Autumn is quickly changing from lovely color to black and white, which I admit has its own beauty. I love the colors of autumn, but approach winter without much enthusiasm. Perhaps it’s my age.

Last winter seemed to be very long. Spring was slow in coming. Snow was piled along my road what seemed like forever even well past the vernal equinox.

I love being outside to chat with passing friends and dog walkers. In the winter, they mostly hurry their animals to do what they need, and go back to a warm house. Yes, summer can be hot and sometimes I give in and turn on the AC. Friends who live in hot climates feel the opposite about winter and summer. They are confined to their airconditioned homes and go out only when necessary, as northerners are confined in the winter.

But even as the darkness falls early now and with the change of time even earlier, the sun begins to lengthen our evenings by mid-December while shortening our mornings until the winter solstice. As the days lengthen I again anticipate Spring and green leaves.

Meanwhile, we’re given the glory of Autumn.