SoCal has been hit with a cold snap overnight. It actually started Monday morning, but last night it got down right chilly. There’s even talk of mountain snow in the next 36 hours, and for this time of year that’s saying something!

Granted, it’s not “cold” the way Alaska is cold, or even New England. But here, it’s a big deal. The local tweets and texts and are all about sweaters and hot drinks and, I admit, my own facebook status announced the return of footsocks. No flip-flops today!

The leaves haven’t dropped yet but I expect bare trees by the end of the week. I repositioned my potted garden for more sun (whereas last week, I positioned them for more shade!). The hummingbirds love the new feeder. The Scrub Jays are already squaking as they try to forage in the few fallen leaves.

It won’t last. By the weekend, the forecast is already calling for a warm-up. I’ll have to shelter my pots again. Fill the feeders and listen as the Jays shout their anger at the absence of the cool. But this is a good teaser of things to come.

What is it about this weather that warrants cookbook reading and logs (lit or unlit) on the fireplace and scented candles in every room? Why is it these things don’t mean as much, say, in the middle of July? Because in the cool, it brings hope, change, ideas, promise.

I find it exciting and cozy to lay in bed at night listening to the breeze tug at my trees. The morning light hints a little more yellow as the birds chirp for their breakfast. Throughout the day, people seem to smile a little more.

Do you see it? Can you feel it? It’s the beginning of the season.

Now if you’ll excuse me. I’d like to write some more but I have to batten down the hatches and stock the pantry first.

Brrrrr…. it’s all about perspective.