For over a decade now, my 4:45-am mornings have given me time to write and edit my novels. Working on my novels somehow calms me and gives me peace of mind, a sense of accomplishment, and no matter what happens throughout the day, I’ve enjoyed first and done my favorite task.

I love the morning routine. Coffee ready. Let out Dog. Feed dog and cat. Turn on computer. Switch on hot plate for coffee. Sit down. Go!

In the quiet pre-dawn morning, the world still asleep, something very satisfying takes place for the next hour before I ready myself for work. Sometimes magic appears on the page with words, sentences, and paragraphs conjuring up stories. By the time I turn off the computer, I’ve lived through several sweet or scary or exhilarating adventures. Not a bad morning. At 8 am, my job seems lackluster.

Years ago, I never imagined being able to write at the crack of dawn, but with my daily routine I invite the Muse, and she comes.

Here is to the Muse and my morning routine.