Bailey Says It’s Time

So, here’s the thing — Bailey has officially decided that summer is over.
Not because the leaves have started to turn (they have), or because I’ve swapped my iced coffee for hot (I have), but because he’s dragged out his winter box.

Yes, he has a winter box. It’s not fancy — just a small bin labeled “Bailey’s Sweaters & Day Blankets.” And today, without hesitation, he stood by it like a little fluffy foreman inspecting inventory. Out came the gray knit sweater, then the fleece one, and finally, the Christmas sweater.

Meanwhile, Ollie’s lounging by the window in full sunshine mode, giving off that “What’s your problem, dude?” energy.

Two dogs. Two very different philosophies on weather.

It’s officially that awkward Vermont transition where the mornings bite, the afternoons tease you with warmth, and the evenings demand a blanket — for both dogs and humans. I can’t say I blame Bailey; my studio slippers have already made their reappearance, and there’s something oddly comforting about it all.

The hum of the kiln, a cup of hot coffee nearby, Bailey snoozing in his sweater while I'm work at the bench — it’s that quiet, cozy rhythm that always seems to settle in right before winter truly takes hold. The kind that reminds me why I love this time of year, even if it means the heat lamps are about to become permanent studio fixtures again.

So, according to Bailey, it’s sweater season.
According to Ollie, it’s still sunbathing season.
And according to me — it’s just the perfect balance of both.