Before the city asks anything of you

The light comes in slow. The radiator clicks once. The street is already moving, but inside it is still yours.

I reach for a bowl before anything else. Yogurt first, then Chai Time. Warm spice, real crunch, something steady before the day starts pulling.

Some mornings the granola is the first decision I make for myself. Everything else lines up after.

A candle goes on beside it. Today, it's New York State of Mind, lit while the coffee heats. Not for decoration. For the signal. This part of the morning belongs to me.

Ten quiet minutes can carry a whole day.

If your mornings have felt scattered, start there.