Stargazer in fall

A stargazer in fall looks very different from my summer banner, and I find it symbolic. In July, the flowers are bursting with color, and energy--full of life. The autumn version is drab, and wilted. It is getting ready to hibernate for the winter, just like I am. I'm not sure if it's healthy--but I can't imagine myself in my "summer" mode the whole year. The cooler weather means that we spend more time around the fire; we watch more movies. I have a bigger collection of books to read since the lawn mowing, and yard work become less frequent, and finally non-existent. I curl up on the couch in the evenings when it's too dark to be outside. Instead of camping, croquet,  and barbeques, we call up friends to play cards, or quiet games. Everything seems more muted, and calmer. (including my energy level, which becomes like the fallow fall stargazer!)  CD (college daughter) was home this weekend; we had a wonderful visit. It is difficult to describe exactly in what ways she completes our family, and yet everything feels brighter when she's around. She talked about classes, books, and philosophy. We shared wisdom about relationships, and how they change after a year, a decade, two decades. Dinner out at our favorite Thai restaurant with the grandparents was very special; I always enjoy seeing the close relationship she has with all three of them. She has asked my husband's mother to make her a family history of stories, and photos for her Christmas gift. Last year as a gift, she wanted Grandma C. to teach her to can, so they spent a wonderful day together. My mother has spent a lot of time with her sewing, and teaching her how to make clothing. My dad and CD enjoy discussing books, history, and politics. So, our family had a very close weekend, including some baby nephew holding time yesterday and last night. Incidentally, does anyone know if the PSAT is harder than the SAT, or how it compares score-wise? Just wondering...