I open my eyes upon waking
and feel the morning sunlight greet them
with the promise of countless possibilities.
I pause in the mirror
as I clean the sleep from my teeth
and study the fine lines the years are slowly giving me.
I sip hot coffee
and feel winter's cold air on my face
as I let the dog out into the fresh, white snow.
I put on flannel and denim,
and my right hand anticipates the feeling
of my hammer's leather handle in its palm.
I walk out the door,
and give thanks for the opportunity
to experience my piece of this world once more.