Good to the last drop

Special thanks to my friend C.J., who recently sent me a care package from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. I now have Community Coffee New Orleans blend (dark roast coffee mixed with chicory) in the house, and, more importantly, in the cup. This is the best way I know to start the day. Brew this, add hot milk, and darlin', it's a good morning even if a cold rain is falling and the rent is due. Merci, cher!

I start every day with coffee and a prayer and music. I used to take my dog Shadow out for a walk every morning, and before him, Shekinah, and before her, Sonya. I got Sonya in 1978, and she died in 1990. A year later, Kinah came charging into my life, and then Shadow asked to be mine, too. So I have lived with dogs almost continuously since 1978. Twenty-eight years. And now, not. It's a big change. I am having to create far more of a new life than I had imagined. New rituals. I could use some suggestions. What works for you?