The house is quiet. The sky is lightening to the east - a view I am graced with every morning as I look out the kitchen window. The dogs have been fed, the coffee has been brewing and it’s almost time to pour the cup.

The teaspoon of sugar, the splash of cream, the aroma of the brew - it is the most consistent ritual I have, and I look forward to it each night when I go to bed.

The house is quiet and perhaps that is the best part. I can wake up slowly and let me mind wander around as I hold the hot cup. I take my book to the couch. I may read, I may not. It’s the time and space to choose that is so precious.