4:47 am

The first hint of light bounces across the Olympic Mountains, reflects off the blue of the cold waters and stirs my sleep as early as 4:45 am. By five o’clock it is bright enough to read by natural light, although I pull the covers over my head and snuggle deep in the warmth of the bed. I justify thirty more minutes of sleep because I am on vacation, after all.

The sun doesn’t set until nearly 10:00 pm which makes for very long days, especially for the Littles. I couldn’t sustain these hours for very long, but during our vacation, the change in light patterns has been a welcomed surprise. Although waking up in the 4’s is too early by any standard!

We left on vacation the same day I began the Bible in 90 Days Challenge. I was concerned I wouldn’t find time, or have the discipline, for my daily readings. But, so far, so good. I began Genesis on the long plane ride and have found ample chunks of time to read during our adventure-filled days. I even completed one of my readings on the ferry. I’m not sure I’ll ever know if my queasy tummy was caused by the rough crossing across Puget Sound or the explicit instruction the Lord gave Moses for burnt offerings!

This early morning quiet time on vacation is different than my usual morning routine at home. The brightness of the dawn and the cadence of the sea set a simply glorious backdrop for morning prayer and reading. Even for Exodus, Leviticus and Numbers! At home, darkness hovers as I make my way downstairs to my prayer couch. Sometimes I pray in the stillness of the dark morning before I switch on the lamp beside my perch. Other mornings, especially when I wake up already distracted, I jump right into The Word, praying for focus and direction for my study.

As our vacation time dwindles, I’m looking forward and wondering how my morning routine will adjust to the 90 Day Challenge. Because I’m not sure Husband will accept my proposal that we should remain seaside for the duration of my Bible read-a-thon.

Silly man.