My neck hurts. So does my lower back and therefore, I’m not sleeping right now. It’s 4:49 am Mountain time and I’m already worrying about what these digits will translate to in five more hours. Likely eyes that sting, patience that is missing in action, and a magnetic pull to my pillow.

But I just walked out to grab a bowl of cereal and saw that dull orange which tinges the sky only at wee minutes of morning. The shade changes with each one. And I love it. I’m not sure why. Maybe because it reminds me of Dunkin Stix fingers and camo with dad, the time he carved out for just the two of us. Or maybe because it’s quiet, uninterrupted time where I can read, journal or do the funky chicken if I so desire, without anyone knowing. But I tend to think it’s because mornings feel like secrets. Whispers saying, “Not everyone gets to see this color, right now, in this moment.” 

I did. And it’s special like Dunkin Stix and deer stands.