Daily writing prompt

What are your morning rituals? What does the first hour of your day look like?

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Mornings can be a mix of calm and chaos, but the first hour of my day always feels like a grounding moment. It’s the time I use to prepare for what’s ahead, not just physically, but mentally, too.

My day starts with waking my daughter, who’s still caught in the sleepy haze, and gently guiding her through breakfast. I make sure everything’s ready—her vitamins, water, snacks for school—all the little things that help keep us on track. I even set a timer for her breakfast, usually 20 minutes, to make sure we’re staying on schedule. It’s funny how these small routines help keep my day from feeling like a rush.

While she eats, I take a breath. There are definitely mornings when she’s just not ready to get up, and the little arguments start. It can make things feel rushed, especially when I’m low on patience, but I try to remind myself that it’s just part of the process. It doesn’t always go perfectly, and that’s okay.

After she’s done, I get her dressed and warm up the car. While the car is heating up, I take a few moments to get myself ready. There’s a rhythm to this, a quiet space before the hustle begins. It’s my way of preparing for whatever comes next.

Once I drop her off at school, I’ve learned to take a breather. I’ve started stopping by a pond on the way back, and that’s where I find my peace. Watching the geese float on the water, no matter how rainy or windy it is, reminds me that there’s beauty in just being. It’s in those moments of stillness that my creativity flows, and I often end up writing or reflecting on life. There’s something so soothing about watching the rain create little ripples on the surface of the water—it clears my head and helps me feel centered.

The first hour of my day is more than just about getting things done. It’s about setting the tone for the day, finding quiet in the chaos, and giving myself the space to just be. It’s a time for peace, for purpose, and for connection. And honestly, it’s a reminder that I’m doing something right—by creating these little moments of calm and grounding, I’m giving myself the best start to the day.