Early morning.  Daylight has yet to waken.  I am up.  My morning greeting is gruff.  Coffee is scenting the air invitingly.  I have a double date.  My husband is already pouring my liquid bribe.  He is far more awake than I. 

Prayer.  Wisdom.  conversation.  resoration.  The sun is now awake and so is my family.  One by one "goodmornings".  Breakfast in shifts.  Another cup of coffee.  A kiss goodbye.  A day begun in earnest.

Math and grammar.  Tears and hugs.  Fights and games.  Reading and vocabulary.  Whining and crying. 

Lunch all together.   A dash for the van.  Urging, yelling.  "Hurry Up!"   A sigh.  A wrinkled brow.  An apology. 

Swimming lessons  for my middle child.  Lest he be forgotten.  Back to the van.  Back to my home away from home.  Another trip to the grocery store.  Many stares, many unasked questions as two very school aged children roam the aisles with me.  We alternate between arguing and laughing.  That is always our way.  Our family signiture.  It causes raised eyebrows and some jealous smiles.  That is always the way.

Home in time for tea.  A friend.  A new friend.  A new rhythm.  Conversation.  Relaxation.  Laughs and insight.  Time flies.  Hours gone spent with ease with likemindess.

Supper time.  Daddy's home.  Chaos.  Energy.  Headache.  A quick kiss and snuggle by the stove.  A chubby, tiny hand tugging.  Interupting.  A last glance of longing.  A promise in his eyes.  Baths.  Books.  T.V. 

Time for bed.  Relief.