This morning is still. Quiet.It's early yet.Fleece blanket around shoulders, tea mug in hand, I lean into the translucent morning breathing the crackling December air.I can see my own breath, and the steam rising from the fragrant tea.Dogs happily run through frosted grass.Birds chirp their morning songs.Close my eyes.

Open my ears.

Senses alive.

Take it all in.

Yes, I feel it.

Deep satisfaction.

Deep love.

Deep connection.

In-the-marrow knowing: I love and am loved.Lips move into an instant and unstoppable grin.On this still and expectant Christmas morning, I've received the first gift: Profound appreciation for this one precious life of mine.Silent, prayerful thanks flow like a river coated with ice - underneath it's constant, steady, powerful.Reverie.Until yipping dogs announce it's time to go inside.And so I do.Full to the brim.Full of joy.Of hope.Of love.I think: Let this glorious day begin.And it has.