Sometimes I wake up very early, like I did today. At 5:30 am, I decided to get up and watch the sun rise from the window of my apartment while I drank coffee and caught up with some blogs. There is something about the quiet morning hours that is so peaceful. I am not one of those lucky people who wake up raring to go, bright-eyed and talking a blue streak. Anyone who knows me knows that I need my coffee and some quiet time before I become something close to human. Since I am staying in an apartment building on a rather busy street, and not in my little cottage, I am always aware of my effect on others in the building. I walk quietly, keep the television volume down, wait to exercise until a decent hour, and try to close doors quietly. My downstairs neighbors are married – 2 actors who are in the same play. I tend to hear their footsteps, but generally, they are very quiet.

It has been two weeks since I came to San Diego. I start teaching next Tuesday and my schedule will get busier. That’s a good thing. My husband is dealing with the frigid temperatures that are enveloping so much of the country. Out here it has been much warmer than usual. Such a contrast!

I am settling in. The apartment is much more ‘me’ than it was when I first arrived. I can take pleasure in my surroundings and that is so important to me. It always has been, since I was a young girl. I feel that if I create an environment that is warm and enveloping, I can function more efficiently. I can relax and let go. I know all my blogging friends feel the same way.

This sweet coffee mug helps me wake up. I got it at Target – so much better than a plain cup, isn’t it? Flowers on anything – I love them!

Have a great Friday!