What is the first thing you do when you wake up every morning? Why?

Sleep begins to pull away. Light behind my eyelids causes me to squint. I take a deep breath and stretch the remnants of my dream back into dreamland.

The house is quiet. Filtered sunlight casts the bedroom in a warm glow. A peaceful feeling fills my chest. All is well. I've made it through another night.

The sound of a door opening alerts me that Hesston has woken up too.

I lie still, closing my eyes, and listening.

Footsteps charge into my bedroom, then pause. Soft breath brushes my face. I count the seconds before my son roars at me.

Opening my eyes and kicking my limbs, I pretend to be frightened, like he's the scariest animal on the planet.

"I scare you?" He asks with a giggle.

"You scare me." I answer.

A big smile lights up the cutest face on the planet.

I ruffle his blond hair, and pull him onto the bed for cuddles. He curls up next to me and gives me the warmest morning welcome, a big hug.

"I love you."

"Love you, momma." He responds.

My day has officially begun.

Hesston and I love to play the scare game. I think he knows I'm awake, waiting for him to scare me. But, it's just so much fun seeing the satisfaction of a good scare on his face, first thing in the morning. His giggles and smiles carry me throughout the day.