Since I have a dog that likes being walked early in the morning, I usually get up around sunrise–these days around 04:45. Bentley will begin to whimper softly at that time. If I don’t get up, which is common, he will move closer to my head, me ear, and whimper and whine softly. This usually does it.

I really don’t mind it at all. By the time we reach a nearby park, I am feeling more awake and know the coffee is brewing back home. After our walk, I will enjoy some quiet time, some morning solitude. Often, I will read. Sometimes I will work on my blog. These days, as it is so hot after 10:00 in the morning, I will often go to my “garden room” and paint or go out back and work on a frame for a painting.

As I enjoy my morning coffee, and my time with Bentley, I try to get to bed by 08:00, watch TV until 09:00, and turn off the TV and roll over.