I opened my eyes 

and saw morning light 

between the slats 

of my window blinds.

I stretched.

I did still-in-bed kitty cuddles 

with my sleeping companion.

I got up 

and walked to the bathroom  

feeling the soft carpet 

below my feet 

with every step.

I cleaned up for the day.

I opened my bedroom blinds 

and greeted the new day 

for a moment.

I cleaned up a hairball gift 

my Princess left for me 

in the night.

I walked out into my living area 

and surveyed my wonderful home.

I took a moment for some gratitude. 

Then I opened the blinds 

and straightened up 

and gave my kitty 

her morning treats.

I refilled the treat jar 

and checked the weather forecast.

I went into the kitchen 

and started the kettle.

I put away yesterday’s clean dishes.

I fed my sourdough starter 

and washed the dishes I used 

and Mika’s food bowl from yesterday.

I took chicken out of the freezer 

to make soup with today.

I decided I would start 

another loaf of sourdough 

tomorrow.

I made tea.

I cleaned my kitchen counters.

I fed Mika 

and gave her fresh water.

I took my morning medications.

I poured my first cup of tea.

Now I am sitting in my chair 

with my tea

looking outside 

at the beautiful blue sky 

with some soft white clouds in it 

and the trees 

and the green grass 

with the morning sunshine on them.

I breathe in 

and breathe out.

Just being 

in the stillness 

and the peace 

of the morning.

Mika has been sitting 

next to the big screen door 

that I leave a bit open for her.

After having her breakfast 

she has been quietly sitting there 

taking in the morning outside

sniffing the air 

listening to the sounds 

following the movements.

She comes up in my chair with me 

ready for her second set 

of morning cuddles.

That connection calming  

and grounding both of us. 

Now she is curled up 

and I am sitting quietly 

sipping my tea 

and reflecting on my day 

as it has unfolded 

so far.

Each step 

in my morning routine  

a mindful moment 

filled with good things 

with one moment 

smoothly flowing 

into the next.

Another new day beginning 

in the beautiful simple life 

that I am so blessed to be living.

And I feel the gratitude 

continuing to flow.