Sneak Peek Into My Morning

It feels so good to finally feel like I'm getting back into a routine! As a busy mom, it can be incredibly challenging to carve out time for yourself, especially in the mornings. For a while, my mornings felt like a blur of baby needs and endless tasks. But lately, I've been making a conscious effort to reclaim a little peace before the day truly begins, and it's making such a difference. I'm telling you, it's those quiet moments, often starting around 6:32 AM, that really set the tone, fueled by Jesus and coffee! My morning ritual usually kicks off with a warm cup of coffee. It's not just about the caffeine; it's a moment of sensory calm. Brewing it myself, savoring the aroma – it’s a small act of self-care. While my coffee cools, I usually take my collagen. It's a quick, easy step that makes me feel like I'm doing something good for myself. Then, it's straight to pumping for my little one. This is often where the magic happens for my quiet time. I've found that this is a perfect opportunity to multitask in a meaningful way. This is where my Bible reading comes in. Instead of just scrolling on my phone, I grab my bible and a simple notebook. I love having a physical journal to jot down thoughts, prayers, or verses that resonate with me. It’s my personal form of 'mornings with God.' Sometimes it's just a few verses, other times I dive a bit deeper. Using a notebook helps me process my thoughts and keeps me engaged. It’s not about doing a full-blown study every day, but consistently showing up. This practice helps me feel grounded and spiritually fed before the demands of the day take over. If you're looking to start a journaling practice, just begin with gratitude – three things you're thankful for – or a simple prayer. And of course, my furry co-pilot, my sweet dog, is usually right by my side during this time. Her gentle presence adds another layer of comfort to my morning routine. It’s amazing how a pet can provide such quiet companionship, making these moments feel even more special and less solitary. For any parents or caregivers out there struggling to find their rhythm, here are a few tips I've picked up: Start Small: Don't try to overhaul your entire morning at once. Pick one or two things you want to incorporate – maybe just coffee in silence, or five minutes of reading. Build from there. Prepare the Night Before: Lay out your clothes, set up your coffee maker, or have your journal and bible ready. Anything you can do to reduce friction in the morning helps immensely. Be Flexible: Some days, the baby wakes up early, or you just don't have the energy. That's okay! Don't let one off-day derail your entire routine. Just pick it up again tomorrow. Embrace Multi-tasking (Mindfully): Like pumping while reading, or listening to a podcast while preparing breakfast. Find ways to weave in your self-care without adding extra time to an already packed schedule. Focus on How it Makes You Feel: Remind yourself why you're doing this. For me, it’s about feeling more centered, less stressed, and ready to face the day with a more positive outlook. It’s truly a journey, not a destination, but every little step forward feels like a victory.