Rain is eminent for the remainder of this Sunday, and I am on the deck to grasp every ounce of outside time. 67 degrees is quite comfortable, and a breeze holds the 96% humidity at bay to maintain the comfort level.

Erma slept well through the night and was the first one out of the gate for the breakfast rush in the kitchen. Nearly an hour later, she’s resting on the deck but lethargic, not even wagging her tail when I call to her. My worry-meter charges from one end to the other.

This afternoon my studio’s academic year schedule commences. I will begin teaching at 4:00 PM on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays and go until 11:30 PM most evenings. While the vast majority of the early lessons up to 9:00 PM are for local students, the remainder of my evenings is for students who Zoom from Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Colorado, Nevada, and California.

As I was just taking some photos of Erma and Chief, I could feel light droplets of rain and hear them beginning to tap against the canvas umbrella. I had hoped for more time at my sanctuary. The umbrella will cover me for the time being but not ere long, I fear.

My plan for the day is to research and scratch out some drafts before tidying up the house and preparing to teach. A load of shirts and shorts is in the wash and shall be dried by electricity rather than hanging on the line. Other than that, the day is pretty ordinary until teaching begins. And of course, tending to Erma…

In the past several minutes, she has been my shadow, following me from room to room, and wagging her tail.

Rain or shine, go ahead and rise to shine so you, too, can make it a great day!