California Dreamin'
Diana Krall Lyrics

All the leaves are brown and the sky is gray.
The singer describes a winter day, where the trees are without leaves and the sky is dull in appearance.

I've been for a walk on a winter's day.
The singer has recently taken a stroll on the aforementioned winter day.

I'd be safe and warm if I was in L.A.
The singer believes that they would feel protected and comfortable if they were in Los Angeles, a location typically known for its warm weather.

California dreamin' on such a winter's day.
The artist is lost in thought, thinking about their fantasies of being in California during the winter season.

Stopped in to a church I passed along the way.
The artist saw a church during their previous walk and decided to enter it.

Well I got down on my knees and I pretend to pray.
The singer knelt on the floor and feigned prayer, although their actual purpose for entering the church is unclear.

You know the preacher liked the cold
The preacher in the church enjoys or is used to cold weather conditions.

He knows I'm gonna stay.
The artist indicates that they will remain in the location where they are, most likely due to external circumstances.

If I didn't tell him I could leave today
The artist suggests that they may have considered leaving the area, but did not inform the preacher of their thoughts.

California dreamin' on such a winter's day.
The artist reiterates their thoughts and desires to be in California during the winter season.

California dreamin' on such a winter's day.
The singer repeats their idea of idealizing California during the winter season.

California dreamin' on such a winter's day.
The artist concludes the song with a repetition of their main theme and idea.