Happy Monday, friends!
I read this in one of Fiona Ferris’ books one time (I don’t remember which one…I’ve read them all!), but she said she liked to get up early in order to have a slow morning.
Yes, yes, YES! Me too, me too!
I would much rather wake up earlier than necessary just to enjoy a slow morning.
On a “normal” school day, I allow myself one hour before I need to leave for the gym/to carpool/etc, but this time of year…you guys, I’m enjoying at least 90 minutes each morning even if that means I’m getting up extra early in order to do it.
Is that weird? Do any of you do this too?
I thought we’d ease into our Monday morning by discussing this topic and our “morning must haves”.
I woke up last week and took a few pics of my morning must haves to share. I’ll share mine and then please share yours too! These “must haves” are all the things I “must” do/have to enjoy a slow morning. They make me happy to wake up early in order to enjoy.
My alarm has been going off around 5:30ish every morning this summer. It’s so much easier to “rise and shine” when sunrise is 5:17 AM. I’m even waking up this early over the weekends too.
The first thing I do when I wake up is put on my cozy robe, my slippers and…
…my eye patches 🙂 .
After that, I scoop up my dogs and we head…
…outside so they can potty. I snapped this pic at 5:54 AM last week. See? Full sun! Ha! It sure makes it easier when it’s bright out and the birds are chirping.
What did I do between 5:30 and 5:54? Got up, got my robe, popped into the bathroom, and then walked around downstairs picking up empty glasses, started the dishwasher, started a load of laundry, fixed up the pillows on my couch…you know, all of those “things” you do to get the house tidy. I mentioned this last week, in McKinney, I do those things at night…but here, the kids are typically up a little later than me, so I do them in the morning.
Obviously on this day, I was looking at my phone because I was snapping pics for you guys, but I’ve been trying so so so hard over the last year not to look at my phone until it’s time to listen to my Bible Recap podcast episode for the day. I’ll glance and make sure I don’t have any missed calls or texts from overnight, but other than that, not looking at my phone has turned into a “must have” for me.
After we get back inside…
…the next (and most important stop) is my morning coffee. (It tastes better with a tidied up kitchen.)
After I get my coffee, I settle in with…
…my big stack of books and my pups for my favorite part of the day…
…pups, pups, everywhere!
I always start my morning with my Bible Recap and any other Bible study I’m working on (I’ve been working through Nehemiah this year). After that, I write in my prayer journal and spend time in prayer. After that, I pick up my lighter/motivational/educational reads…
…I read each day’s entry in The Road to Le Papillon plus, I’ll read a bit from either one of my wellness books or a nonfiction book or sometimes, whichever novel I’m currently enjoying. When I’m done reading, I always finish with a little Sudoku. I love Sudoku 🙂 .
After my reading time is up and my coffee is finished…
…I must make my bed.
I can’t think straight without my bed made.
Anyone else?
So much better!
After my bed is made, I’ll put on my workout clothes and…
…take the dogs for a walk.
In McKinney, they walk after my workout, but for some reason, we’ve gotten into the habit of walking before my workouts on Nantucket. These two are always so excited to head out for a walk.
When we’re finished walking, they go back inside, and if it’s a strength training day…
…I hope on my bike and head to the gym. It’s about a 10 minute bike ride…and I love every minute. In my basket is a bike lock along with a bag that includes a towel, my water, my AirPods, sunglasses, sometimes a sweatshirt, and lip gloss.
After I arrive at the gym…
…I pop my AirPods in and work out.
When I’m finished, I bike home.
And those are my morning must haves 🙂 .
It’s worth waking up early to have extra time to enjoy all of these favorite things.
Okay, it’s your turn!
What are your morning must haves? Do you wake up early to enjoy them too? I’d love to know!
Please comment and share! xx
Elspeth Mizner says
Love love love this! I start my day out with quiet time (reading, word search, journaling) check my phone and then it’s movement time, a walk, run, gym, stretching. I always feel better after i do all this!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Susie says
Elspeth, I love you calling it movement time!
Jacee Crawford says
Love a morning routine! Curious what books you take during travel or do you prefer kindle/apps?
Mix and Match Mama says
When I travel, I only take my Kindle loaded up with books. It is just the simplest, easiest, lightest way to read on a trip.
Katrina Goodman says
I’ve finally started putting my phone away in the morning, so I can read and journal! It has been so nice. I also love waking up early! Today I had my alarm set for 5:45, but I saw light coming in the windows at 5:09 so I got up! My 14 year old and I have traveled from New York to Newport
& at the moment we are headed to Hyannis to get on a ferry to Nantucket to end our trip!! I can’t wait!! I’ve been rereading your posts every day. 🤣
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh goodness, what a perfect trip! I hope I bump into you!!
Emilee says
My morning essentials are my coffee, ice roller for my face, and my prayer journal. It’s the best start to my day!
Mix and Match Mama says
I need to lean into the ice roller. Kensington loves using one too!
Jeanie H says
My morning must haves are my coffee, bible study and some airpods. My husband is a night owl and sleeps until between 8 and 9 am so I have a lot of “ME” time because I get up at 6 am. I love it!
With the release of Elin’s Five Star Weekend, my Insta and TikTok are full of Nantucket scoop. I adore Elin and have followed her for years (probably since her first book!). I saw this tidbit and wanted to pass it along because of your bike riding, beach combing and you have also said Smith is all over the island. The lone star tick has been found on island on many of the deer. This is the tick that causes Alpha Gal in humans. It is something I would never even think would be on an island. Just an FYI since a lot of your pics look like you guys are brushing through long grasses, etc, on your way to the sand.
Have you ever shopped at Hospital Thrift or Bon Ton or lined up for Elin’s infamous book signings? Those are my goals.
Mix and Match Mama says
We have been checking, checking for ticks. We don’t want anything to do with those guys! I haven’t been to the Hospital Thrift, but there is always a long line out front. I haven’t been to one of her book signings either. I’ve seen her in person though dozens of times!
Erika Slaughter says
I LOVE the quiet of the morning! Do I LOVE when my alarm goes off? No! But once I’m up, I love it!
Kristen Sass says
You’ve inspired me! I need to start giving myself extra time in the morning. My son is in conditioning camp for football, so we need to be up and out pretty early. Setting my alarm right now for 45 minutes earlier so my mornings aren’t so rushed.
Mix and Match Mama says
I am going to want to hear what you think! I bet after a week, you’ll never go back. My mom did not understand why my dad and I did this. For DECADES she thought it was crazy. About 10-ish years ago, she started doing it once while having jet lag (she was naturally waking up so early) and has never looked back. Now, she can’t believe she ever use to sleep until the last second and not have her morning time.
Beth says
Good morning! Could you send a link to your coffee maker?
Also now that I’m an empty nester I love reading your blog when I eat breakfast/drink coffee in the am 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank YOU for letting me be a part of your morning routine. It’s a Jura! I bought it at Williams Sonoma.
Leslie says
I got a bike and have been riding at the park this summer for exercise and enjoyment. I’d be curious to know what type of bikes your older kids are using. My college age kiddo has mentioned wanting a bike to use around town.
Mix and Match Mama says
I don’t know the brands, but they’re 10 speed bikes. Last season, Ashby and I updated our bikes, but we haven’t updated the other three in a few years.
Lisa Elliott says
I get up at 5:00 every morning because I need some “me” time. The first thing I do is head to the garage fridge for a Diet Pepsi. That first 45 minutes is totally quiet. Then I head upstairs to ride the stationary bike and after exercising, I head back downstairs to hop in the shower. I don’t have to be at work until 8:30. I actually got up around 4:00 today :-).
Mix and Match Mama says
Isn’t it just the BEST time of the day for “me time”?!
Lane says
Hi Shay! About how much time do you spend on your Bible reading and prayer? I’m just trying to get my brain around the timing of it all as I have not been great about my morning routine this summer! Thanks so much for sharing! I am always so encouraged by your routines!
Mix and Match Mama says
It varies…but I would say at least 35 to 45 minutes each day depending on what I’m studying/how much praying I feel compelled to do that day.
Lane says
Thanks so much!!
Peggy says
What time do you finish that routine? I love getting up before anyone else, but since my husband retired he won’t stay in bed if I’m up. I’ve found myself getting me-time by going to bed later because he doesn’t seem to mind going to bed before me.
Mix and Match Mama says
Right now, I would say that if I wake up at 5:00, I’m done with the gym and back home and ready to take on the day by about 7:45ish.
Elizabeth Spooner says
Love getting up early and seeing the sunrise. I turn on my coffee, bathroom and settle in with my devotionals. A slow morning gets my day started on the right foot. I try to not check social media. I will read some of my current book to finish my coffee then get my day started.
Mix and Match Mama says
That sounds perfect!
Carol says
I’ve had the same morning routine for almost 20 years. Every morning before I get out of bed, I always Thank God for Another Day. Then I make my bed (yes, I am one of those people that has to have the bed made and all 10 plus pillows perfectly on it), Next, coffee while doing my morning walk, another cup of coffee with devotion, quite time on one of my outdoor porches or in my sunroom. Shower, get ready for the day, read your blog, and tidy up. After doing this for so many years, if for some reason, I get off schedule, I can be one mess.
The ice roller is a must. Love, love using mine. You should give it a try.
Mix and Match Mama says
I would do that exact routine every day for 20 years too!
Josie says
I see that Andrew is not in bed when you go to make it. Does he have his own morning routine there? What time does he get up?
Mix and Match Mama says
He gets up around the same time as I do (sometimes a little earlier or a little later…but typically within about 20 minutes of each other. His routine is pretty similar…coffee, Bible time and then gym!
Darcy says
I love the darling picture of your dog in the pillows while you have quiet time…absolutely adorable and such beautiful pillows too! The picture of riding your bicycle with basket to the gym is so charming. You are living the dream…and so thankful that you cherish every moment! Such a good reminder of taking the time to savor the day with gratefulness and healthy habits. Thank you for sharing!
Patty Anderson says
Yes and yes to waking up early so I can ease into my day. I’ve never understood why people need “just a few more minutes” of sleep once they’ve awakened in the morning. No way can I go back to sleep once my eyes are open and the mind starts thinking through the day. I LOVE a slow, peaceful morning!
Faith says
What a fun read! Your cozy stack of books, blankets, and writing utensils makes me happy.
A few morning must haves for me: a hot shower (ever since motherhood this has been the biggest game changer for me to feel awake and ready for the day,
especially after sleepless nights with little ones), then before I dress I have to check my weather app (anyone else!?), and I also like to put on my shoes- new habit as I have four four and under and I pretty much weight lift all day haha I also love classical/instrumental and nothing with words until post coffee haha
Sheaffer says
I slept until 7:30 this morning. SEVEN THIRTY. It was glorious. But now I’m feeling suuuuuuuuuuuuper behind for the day.
Kay says
Love this post! Honestly, I started getting up early because I was inspired by your posts about morning time. I’m naturally a late night person. But a few years ago, I got in the habit of getting up at 6 am and much of my routine is like yours. However, I start every single quiet time 7 days per week with a 10 minute mediation. It really helps me get centered!
This summer I’ve been sleeping a little later because I have three teens and pretty much the only time I can hang out with them is late night. My daughter is off to her first year of college this Fall and my oldest is off to Europe to study abroad for his junior year so I’m trying to soak up every minute before the two of them are far away. But honestly, I feel really off when I sleep later. I truly think early mornings give you the best start ever!
Katie Stewart says
I relate to nearly everything here. I cannot function with an unmade bed. I’m trying to instill this in my daughters but no luck thus far. 😉
I refuse to pour my coffee until my kitchen has been tidied! Typically my sink is emptied and dishwasher loaded before I go to bed but on the off chance that it isn’t, this is happening before I enjoy my coffee!
We’re on a “no plastics- or as little as possible” journey over here and my coffee process is taking longer than usual since I’m using an actual percolator! I do miss just being able to pop in a k-pod but my coffee sure does taste better! 😅
Natasha says
I don’t know what kind of coffee maker you have but my parents bought us a Phillips Baristina and we are LOVING it. You use water and whole beans and it makes one cup of coffee (or espresso) at a time. But the best part is NO KCUPS — just water and beans!!! I love it so much more than our automatic coffee maker and it’s so much less of a hassle because you don’t have to use coffee filters. Just a thought…
Leigh says
After just returning from New England to GA, I’ve said 1000 times how much easier it was to get up with an early sunrise!! I loved it! I’ve also been going on and on about how I loved the weather. My daughter just returned from a vet internship in Belton, TX and said she was embarrassed she told them she was used to hot weather in GA before she went. 😉
Mix and Match Mama says
Bahahaha! It is really warm in Texas! New England summers suit me better too 🙂 .
Kristy Moore says
This teacher loves her slow mornings in the summer. I have a terrible habit of doomscrolling when I wake up. Who knew that 30 minutes of scrolling feels like 2 minutes! You’ve motivated me to get my feet on the floor and leave the phone until I’ve done my morning devotionals.
However, I do love sipping my morning coffee and playing my 3 NYT online games-Wordle, Connections and Strands to start my day. Then I try to do my Bible Recap before I get moving for the day. I can’t remember….is this your first year using the Bible Recap Study Guide? Or have you used it before? If so, do you find it still beneficial year after year as I’m assuming the questions are the same?
Enjoy your Monday!
Mix and Match Mama says
I’ve always told myself I need to do Wordle…I don’t know why I don’t? I bet I’d love it!
Kristy Moore says
Please start! It’s so addictive and fun! Plus it’s so fun to send your stats to family and friends! 😉
Marybeth says
I do Wordle, Connections, and the Times crossword (or at least part it if it’s a tough one!) as part of my morning routine. I love how it wakes my brain up for the day. If I don’t finish the crossword in the morning, I’ll finish while eating lunch or in the evening.
Robyn says
I love a quiet, cool morning! I don’t usually need an alarm and am usually awake at 5 a.m. I rise and shine, do all the things you need to when you first get up, care for my Corgi and then I head out on a walk with a friend. Nothing starts my day better and grounds me more than an early morning walk. I am a teacher, so my walks during the summer time are much longer and more relaxed than my walks during the school year. 🙂 I return home, make breakfast and coffee and I read ( a variety of things) while I am eating. Usually by then I am ready to finish getting ready for the day and move forward.
My bible work is completed at night before I go to bed. I can take my time and really understand what I am reading and/or listening to.
My Guy Guy always said morning was the best part of the day…did I agree with that when I was a kid/teenager…absolutely not! Now…I totally get it. Mornings are so peaceful and really set the tone for your day.
Jenny says
I get up at 4am during the week to go to the gym and workout before heading to work. I get home, take a shower and then have about 30 minutes to just relax before I have to get ready to leave. I love that 30 minutes to just sit and drink my water and not feel rushed! My younger self would have never gotten up earlier than I needed to but I love not feeling rushed all the time.
Mix and Match Mama says
I bet you do love that 30 minutes. What a great way to start the day!
Tiffany B says
What a lovely way to start your morning! And I love the shell driveway/path – feels so summery and beachy. Thanks for sharing!
Kathy says
I used to wake up 30 minutes early when all four of my kids were home as a single parent. Sometimes that was my only down time. Now even though I miss my kids I don’t miss the morning rush getting them all out the door and to school. And I still get up early and it is heavenly.
Susan P Fitzpatrick says
The early morning is my favorite time of day but I am not an early morning person. When I get myself up early I am always happy I did it! I always make my bed. The only time I might not is if I am sick. The only thing I truly need in the morning is coffee!!
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
I LOOOOOOOVE a slow morning. I feel so out of sorts if something happens and I have to get ready quicker than normal in the morning. I love getting up early, making coffee, doing my quiet time, and then having time to either watch something on TV or read another book before my kids get up and it’s go go go :).
MeetTheShaneyfelts
Emily says
No matter how early I set my alarm, it seems like one of my kids feels the need to join me shortly after 😉 we’re just a few years from having a sleeping teenager in the summer-I know it will be a lot different sooner than I’m ready for!
For now, my morning routine goal is coffee upon waking, Bible recap, read your blog, check the socials, and start getting as much done around the house before little feet come down the stairs 🙂
Lisa D says
Morning must haves: get up early and drink a full glass of water, it’s amazing how much better I feel right away! Then start coffee, stretch for 5 minutes, make my cup of coffee and head right to my chair where I get to spend the next hour in the Bible and prayer and writing in my gratitude journal. I don’t look on my phone until after that.
Kristen B says
I own a coffee shop and a frequent question I get asked is “what time do you wake up?”. I sheepishly tell them 4:30, but THIS IS WHY. It is the only time in the day that is all mine. It is quiet and peaceful and just a wonderful way to start the day. With a small business and a toddler, I’ll take any peaceful moment I can get!
Mix and Match Mama says
I love this!!
faith says
Wow a coffee shop and a toddler! Your life sounds so interesting! It sounds like a lot of hard work and could also be a novel:)
Kristen B says
Haha I love that perspective! It’s a busy (fun) season in life for sure 🙂
Debra says
I love getting up early this time of year. I usually head out for a morning walk in the neighborhood, come back and water my plants, pick any blueberries that are ripe and then head inside to check email, review my to do list and start making progress. I love the quiet of the morning.
Elizabeth Stephens says
I love getting up early before everyone and a beautiful setting! So important to make time for God’s word and devotional in the morning.
Nikki E Merritt says
Must have coffee, water and my am workout is non-negotiable. Might have to (finally) checkout a Fiona Ferris book.
Amy says
Coffee and quiet time with Jesus first thing in the morning is a must for me, it sets the day in the right direction ❤️. And then a walk….and if I ever don’t feel like walking (which happens) then reading your blog each morning always motivates me to move.
Dana K says
My main morning must-have (besides caffeine) is only during the school year. I’m a teacher and, although I officially have to be at school by 7:00, I get to school around 6:30 to wrap my brain around the day and have some peace and quiet before my 1st graders come in. Students can come into the room as early as 7:10!
Marybeth says
I get up at 4am to go work out. I belong to a barre studio and absolutely love the workouts, the staff, and the ladies I have met there. It has truly been life changing. I do a quick devotional on the Bible app as I’m getting dressed, brushing teeth, etc. It’s a bit of a drive to the studio from my house, so I make my coffee before I leave the house and it’s waiting in an insulated mug for me when I come out of class : ) I enjoy that, along with some sort of breakfast bite (usually an energy ball or protein biscuit) with a podcast while I drive home. Then I get ready for the day and try to squeeze more Bible study and prayer in before heading out to work.
I enjoy your posts from Nantucket so much. It’s on my bucket list to visit : )
Mix and Match Mama says
Well this sounds like the PERFECT morning routine!
Tina says
I love, love, love your routines posts! You’ve been inspiring me to wake up earlier for years. As soon as you went to make your bed, I realized we need to know Andrew’s Nantucket morning routine, too. Ha!
Terry says
Shay, do you have sources for your couch pillows?
Mix and Match Mama says
They are Serena and Lily and Pottery Barn!
Tracy Robinson says
There’s a couple I follow on TikTok (Lunden and Olivia) and they commonly post “waking up the house” with me videos. I love them and have thought of my mornings like that now. As I open the blinds, tidy things up, like you describe.
Bren says
I couldn’t love my quiet morning times more. I love to get my house a little bit in order, feeling so productive before the day really gets going.
We were out west last week (hence my very late post) and the quiet early mornings in first Yellowstone, then Glacier National Park were truly unmatched. The sunrises over the mountains and lakes, the wildlife, not to mention beating the crowds entering all at once, were simply unmatched. I’ll be dreaming about those beautiful, peaceful mornings for years to come. So thankful for my early morning time!