yesterday morning i woke up (45 mins later than usual) had a cup of coffee, fed the cat, and finally hit the shower. not in a rush, and feeling a bit guilty for the feeling of relief (and almost giddiness) that i had a morning to Just Worry About Me. not worry as in WoRrY...just in the sense of : I had no one to be responsible for but myself. yes, i did feel guilty that the reason was because of 1 little shift in the routine:diva was at grandma's. now, i love that dog with the fierceness of a mamma bear, but the luxury of not having to watch the clock in order to leave time for her morning walk, etc, was sweet. and as the warm water from the shower slid down my shoulders, i realized how little time i take for self-care, and yes - self-indulgence. and how 1 small change made such a big difference. i am always running to or from an obligation...doggie-wise or otherwise. and have made a promise to myself to take better care, and to schedule in the time just for me. i am used to spending hours in my studio absorbed in a project, then feeling guilty if i want to go for a walk alone, etc, so i don't. i looked at my calendar, and february is already filled to bursting with obligations. so- starting in March...i will make these changes: yoga on saturday mornings...another flying leap at quitting smoking...on saturdays i will plan lunches for the week and prepare as many in advance on sunday (so i don't eat drive-through crap all week). right now, that's the best i can do. and i think that's a good start. tonight...diva is at grandma's and husband goes out of town, so i don't have to rush home! maybe a foray to Barnes & Noble. livin' on the wild side, my friend! for now - shower and work. Can I say - i am loving Susan Tuttle's digital photography manipulation workshop?? so easy with her guidance! i recommend. L.