Some mornings, like this morning, I'm awake early, and listening to the rain. At first, I can't distinguish the rain sounds from the ceiling fan sounds. They mix together, weaving in and out in offbeat rhythm. Rain means no rush for the dog. He can wait. I finally get up, walk the dog. It's a strange New England morning for October: warm with light rain, so I raise my face into the darkness to let drops fall over my eyes. The dog shakes, ready to head back home into the dry. #smallstories