  Back at work after several weeks of leave, my intention is to stay as centered in the midst of my "normal" life as I did when I had hours and hours to myself. It is no small thing to want. Like everyone else I know, my "normal" day is full of things I love to do among people with whom I love to be. Among and between these things and people much is exchanged ~ needs and comforts, help given and help recieved.
Easily does that sense of centeredness slip out the side pocket of my conciousness. In no time at all, I'm mentally rushing here and there, working hard to beat the clock ~ the alarm that says this day has run out and everything must be put off till tommorrow. I've learned, and am learning, that if I do that first hour right ~ the rest usually follows. Doing it right means, for me, starting out slowly.
. .
and then tapering off. It means waking up slowly, rising rested, giving the kids my full attention till they are on the bus, sitting on the porch and just listening/watching until my insides do this little mental/spiritual exhale that tells me it's time to get ready for the next part ~ work, house, whatever. Through the day, when that little demon in my head offers her the only word she knows, "hurry.
.
.hurry.
.
.hurry" ~ therein is my cue ~ breathe, slow down, wait. On the occasional day that goes as I intended, the time lengthens and day's end is not a judgement but a curse.
. .
a gift.
.
.a joy. 
