and it begins...but I'm trying to stay positive

953am
As I take my first Awake sip, rather than dwell, I'll be thankful for a morning that was actually quite pleasant.

Miri awoke right after 7am and I took her out of the crib.  She was pacified when I gave her the plastic orange slice on the floor (which she calls "peach") and we stood and hugged for a minute or so and then she let out little toots and we both laughed at each one.

She came down and hung out with me during breakfast (a 21-month-old who eats grapefruit) and was even amiable when I put her in the crib (so long as I played the Elmo CD).

Now I'm transported back to reality though, and AKA SW is in decent spirits, so I reckon that's good. I've got some tidying to do and such.  Needed a coffee-free night so I should be in good form today.

1042am
I've got my Pike so that it cools down just enough in the next 10 min so that my conference call won't be so daunting. I've got a bit of a headache in my eyes but it's likely from erratic sleep.  I can plow through this.

1135am
Phone call over. Coffee has been imbibed.  I'm actually feeling the effects of the java.  Or is it the freedom of the call's end?

250pm
Did my 60 curls of 35lb (each) and I think the blood rush took effect.  Went down to 18 with GW to get ice (not exactly iced) coffee and chill out for a bit.  He noticed that my 'tude is far more positive now than it was 8 days ago and we talked about the importance of networking and all that.  AKA SW's absence also contributed to my mellowed demeanor.  I am making it less about her, though, and more about enhancing my contacts and getting where I'd like to get. I saw a quote the other day that spoke to me: "Frustrated employees stay."

I don't want to be that guy anymore.

I think that might do it for me and caffeine for the day.  I've got some su dokus I can do on the train but I'll actually try to nap.  I have not missed the 555 at all but I only have to take it today and tomorrow this week.

Thank you for reading!