Spring has sprung, it’s true. But what isn’t true is that the mornings are any lighter. It feels like a really long winter. Especially when you have to walk the dog BEFORE work. And that translates to 5:30 in the morning. Let me repeat that-5:30 AM! 

Dragging myself out of bed is always difficult. I have never been a morning person. Heck, I even taught my oldest daughter to not wake Mommy up until the clock said 7-0-0. But with this job, I have to open the clinic up and that means that in order to get there to do so, I have to wake up at 5:00 so Remy and I can have our breakfasts before we walk.

Needless to say, the winter mornings are dreary. The cold is bitter and the wind cuts through everything. And with the onset of spring, the mornings aren’t as cold but they are still dark. 

Initially, I hated these walks.

All the reasons I stated above came into play. But then one morning, after we had moved to our new neighborhood, I started appreciating those times.

I noticed that there were plenty of lights on in the houses and townhomes dotting our enclave. It made me feel less alone to see others up and moving. There were cars exiting our neighborhood to go to work-another positive affirmation.

And at some point, I also spotted the shadows on the ground. They were so beautiful in their simplicity. Yin and yang in harmony.

That’s when I took the time to relish the quiet of the early morning hours. I pass a few dog walkers but for the most part it’s just me, Remy and the morning sounds. I still hate getting out of bed but at least I am grateful for what I am given each morning. It gives me a chance to reflect on my day and value what I have. Try it someday. The peace is welcome.