I never was an early riser -

Preferred to snooze ‘til half past nine.

Until I fancied myself an exerciser

And found I did not have the time.

Five AM I started to wake

Sneakers on and jumping jacks.

Tired out fast and needing a break

Stretching it out, sweaty clothes onto racks.

The morning squats became routine

And my health improved for sure

But when my kids entered the scene

Early days were theirs, forevermore