The house in the photo is actually gray. The dawn light was so golden and pink this morning that it bathed everything in magical colors for a little while. Early risers get to experience these moments, even in December. The hawk, (a red tailed I think) perched on the right corner of the roof, has been hanging out in our neighborhood for the past few weeks. It looked as though he or she was enjoying the sun, and a respite from the flock of crows that mob it mercilessly whenever they find it.

Winter light throws everything into sharp relief. The blues are bluer and the contours of the ground – or in this case the sand – are more defined. Things are crisp and clean.

I took this shot at midday. I love how huge my dog’s ears look in her shadow. I also like how the sun’s low angle brings out every track in the sand.

People complain about the “dark days of winter.” I can’t wait for them.