This morning, Pedram woke up before the alarm and let Rusby out of his crate.  That always wakes me up because Rusby cannot control himself and shakes the entire crate three feet to the left before Pedram can open his door.  And then he continues to shake uncontrollably with happiness, circling Pedram over and over in excitement, occasionally run to the bed to see if I am up, and then realizing I am not in the mood, running quickly back.

Then they go outside in our backyard and play for a while.  Usually, I snooze here for another 30 minutes.  But this morning I also got up, and after eating breakfast, we all went for a walk together.  The weather has been relatively okay — at this point I thought we would be up to our knees in snow, and although it is cold, it is at least sunny.

Then we come home, shower and get ready for the work day.  But not before leisurely drinking some tea.

I remember when I lived in Leschi (Seattle), how my wake-up to at-work time was 30 minutes — which included a 20 minute bus ride.  And how I would go for my coffee, eyes barely open, eat something around 10:30 because my stomach was growling, and sometimes look down and notice I am wearing two different socks.

Today I was awake a good 2 hours before heading to work.  I arrived already full from breakfast, no need for an additional tea or coffee, and with a 30 minute walk accomplished.  It is a much much better way to start the morning.

Of course, a part of me still thinking I should have taken that 1.5 hours and slept in, but I realize my capabilities, and know this will not last forever.  Knowing myself, it will not take long before I veto the at-home breakfast for a muffin on the go.

But this very fine fall morning, I am glad I got out of bed when I did.  And I know Rusby is happy I did too.

PS – Please excuse my still half sleeping look and outfit.