The calm before the storm

"Breathing in, I calm body and mind. Breathing out, I smile. Dwelling in the present moment I know this is the only moment."
— Thich Nhat Hanh (Being Peace)

I've recently started getting up at 5 am.  I love the hour before the kids get up.  I have time to wake up in the quiet, drink my coffee, and watch as the sun rises each morning. 

My kids are early risers.  They're usually up around 6 am or shortly after.  When I allow myself to sleep until they get up, the mornings are chaotic.  Getting up earlier than them gives me some peaceful time to wake up and prepare for the day. 

Today, I have a class from 9-12, then I have to do something with the kids.  I'm thinking about taking them to the fair, so that they can see the animals and do some fun things.  I'm not used to having the kids on a Saturday, but their father contacted me last night to tell me that he will be unable to take them.  I'm looking forward to doing something fun with them!