My thoughts have turned towards wanting a cup of coffee. It’s a dark morning, clouded over. The time change of daylight dawning still messes with me. It shouldn’t, as ultimately the animals always let us know when it is their time to go to bed or get up. And it is hinged to daylight, or lack there of, and not a clock.
I wait for first light to turn the coffee maker on. Time to throw on some trousers and a wooly sweater before braving the outside to let the ducks out. They know the sounds. The minute they hear my footsteps outside they let me know they are glad to hear me. (And, please let me out now!)
The mad rush begins as I open their bedroom (in our stable) door. Well, it has been 12 hours since they last ate! Goodness, you would think they were starving. Then it’s a quick run, hop, flight out the barn door for a little wing stretch before settling down to the serious activity of worm hunting.
I follow them down to refresh water and food bowls. A head of lettuce is hung for some needed fresh greens. It’s hung from a string, pinata style. It makes it not only into a nourishing treat, but a game as well. Ducks are very playful.
Back to my coffee! But first, the second morning ritual must take place. Whilst letting out the ducks, Chewie takes the opportunity to leave his bed and take over my spot. Every day I come back in to be confronted by puppy dog eyes, saying ‘who me?’. And every morning, I have to hoick him down and to the middle of the bed.
As a sausage dog you would think he would fit nicely, snuggled between Pumpjack and I. But no, he likes to lie horizontal between us, rather than vertical. And he is a lump. Standard size dachshunds are all muscle, 16kg (35lbs) of it in Chewie’s case. So each morning we play the game of who will be beta in this pack and have out wrestling match for our places.
Sometimes Sanka, our other and larger dog, joins in the melee. Occasionally a cat or two, too. It all has to be done on the quiet if Pumpjack is still asleep. Sometimes he is up late writing his (second) book, so we try to give him as much of a lie in as possible in the mornings. We aren’t always successful.
Finally able to get back under the warm covers, Chewie curled up by my knees, I can pour my cup of coffee. Ahhh… Cup warming my hands, scent flowing up my nostrils, I can start to plan what I wish to write about today.
More writings on Coffee:
For the Coffee Lover, a Débelloire is a Must Have!
How your Morning Coffee can Rehydrate your Skin – recipes included
Did you know the French invented Coffee as we know it? (not written by me)
Of Eggs and Coffee – additional musings and recipes
PS.
If like us you are seriously into your coffee, do check out Our Shop. We have a curious selection of coffee (and tea) items. Including Debelloires, unique French single cup coffee makers.
(Simply click on an image to see more.)