My least favorite hour of the year is daylight savings time in the fall. I think they should call it daylight cravings, because afterward it seems like every day is shorter (and for someone who loves to play outdoors, boo!)

But I’m trying to make the most of the one hour I gain from switching back to Standard Time. For most people, the extra hour is reserved for sleep. But this year, instead of hitting the snooze six times, try doing something else with your hour.

Here are some suggestions:

• Cook breakfast for your spouse. Add a sweet note for good measure.
• Write a sonnet.
• Spend time listening to worship music or contemplating the Psalms. Does this change your experience in church later that day?
• Go for a bike ride or hike and talk to God along the way.

Of course, this means you’ll need to be proactive about getting to bed on time. Maybe go to an earlier showing of that blockbuster you want to see. Or enjoy an evening at home the night before reading a good book.

What will you do with your extra hour?

*Photo courtesy of here