Except for me.

The houses around me are dark.
Not a sound outside: no traffic, not even birds.
Even Riley’s snug in his bed.

Life is in repose.

Wrapped in a thick robe, I’m cozy in my house.
One lamp lights the room and a lit candle
sends out the scent of fresh-cut apples.

A good time to read. Write. Or just sit.

☀

Then, slowly, as the sun comes up,
the world comes to life.
The slap of newspaper deliveries hitting pavement.
The beep-beep of car remotes unlocking.
Garage doors open and ignitions start.

The click of the coffeemaker marks the start of my day.

The world catching up with me is almost a disappointment;
I’m sorry to lose the peace and quiet.

But then, I remember: dawn will come again tomorrow.