First of all, sleeping all day long seems like a distinct possibility in this weather. Secondly, a cup of strong coffee is just bliss. Having lived in Portland for five years, and learning a love of blustery weather, I spend most of my time in the winter sunshine of Southern California intermittently jealous of those of you who get to enjoy rainfall more often.

But then, when sunshine returns later this week (perhaps even tomorrow morning), I will be glad that I live in Southern California. Because–another lesson I learned in Portland–rain is best in small doses.