I believe that the way I start my day has a lasting impact on my mood and energy level. Having a positive, predictable, joyous routine in the morning is something that is very important to me.
In our home, my husband is the early riser. He wakes up with the sun and is showered and dressed before I lift my head from the pillow. His cajoling is my favorite alarm clock.
After I set my feet on the floor, I am off to wake our little one. Her sweet smile sets the tone for my entire day. For many years, I would pick her up from the bed and carry her around in my arms, but now she’s getting too big. Instead, we race each other down our creaky old staircase and into the kitchen where we gather around the island for breakfast.
My husband always hands me a mug of strong, dark coffee. The smell, taste, and warmth bring me to a deeper level of consciousness. One inhalation of the steam rising from my cup and I’m prepared to face the day.
Breakfast is relaxed and casual. As we eat, we recap our dreams and talk about the day ahead. My daughter will usually try to convince us to let her stay home from school. We will usually say no.
There is time for one PBS show, and then we finish getting ready for our days and begin heading out the door. My daughter with her backpack, my husband with his messenger bag, and me with my bright red tote.
We all pack into my station wagon and then head to school. After walking our daughter to her classroom and giving her a big hug and kiss, we journey back home. I drop my husband off at his car. We kiss and wish each other a good day. He drives to his office, and I drive to mine.
And that’s it. Everyday of the work week.
I’m calm. Relaxed. Ready.
Bring on the challenges of the day….
Entertaining Family 