I woke briefly during the night and for a moment, stood at the balcony door feeling lashed by the sea breeze and spattered by the rain, listening to the waves crashing against the shore. I went back to sleep, expecting (rather realistically, I think) that I’d awaken again at “my usual time” – sometime around 04:00-05:00. It’s quite rare for me to sleep later. This morning, I woke shortly after 07:00, already daylight beyond the windows. A gray stormy morning. High tide? Almost – that’s due at 08:00.

A stormy morning, almost high tide.

I pulled myself together groggily, resisting turning on any lights, just enjoying the blue-gray of the stormy morning. The room feels stuffy, and I open the patio door wide to let in the sea breeze. I shower and dress, and run a brush through my hair, before heading downstairs briefly to grab some grab-n-go breakfast items. This morning’s breakfast is simple enough: a yogurt cup, some instant oatmeal, a small blueberry muffin to go with my second coffee, later. I indulge myself by having a small glass of orange juice, but just 4 ounces; it’s a lot of sugar all at once – but it’s enough to shake off the grogginess that had lingered. I return to my room and make coffee (the coffee in the breakfast bar is… less than ideally fit to drink. LOL)

Today is a work day, although I’m on the coast in a favorite hotel room. I’m getting a late start on the day but my hours are pretty flexible, and it’s a non-issue. My co-workers chuckle when I log in “so late” (for me). I’m usually the earliest one in. Today? Not so much. LOL Breakfast first. I take my time and let myself wake up thoroughly, before I start handling work tasks (that’s just smart). My coffee is good. Welcome and warming. Breakfast is… adequate. Nothing fancy. It’s enough to start the day on.

Damn I slept well. A huge yawn splits my face. A gull glides past the window, seeming to look in at me as it slides past and out of view.

A good spot for watching the gulls.

I already miss my Traveling Partner. He already misses me. I still value (and enjoy)(and even need) this solo time. The time spent on work is just work time, but the time I’ll get to spend reading, writing, reflecting, and taking pictures will be so emotionally nourishing. Time well-spent. Doesn’t stop me missing my partner. The opportunity to miss each other is precious; it gives lasting perspective and awareness of just how much we really do mean to each other. That’s worth having.

…My Traveling Partner pings me a heart emoji. He’s awake too. The day begins. I smile, thinking of the both of us, each in our own space, sipping our morning coffee, rested, relaxed, and in love. It’s a good morning. 😀 I sip my coffee contentedly and glance at the time. Looks like time to begin again. 😀