I woke up to complete stillness.

The power was out from the storm.

I smiled.

I will tell you why.

There is a peacefulness that comes with absolutely nothing electronic on in our home.

A quiet that I forget the sound of after a while.

It is refreshing to me to know that I have limited options of what I can do for the day.

A change of pace.

I am forced to pause and breathe.

I cannot do anything when I get up because I cannot see.

I take my cup of tea to a window and just listen to the stillness.

I take joy in the simple task of lighting our stove top, opening the curtains, and avoiding the dark places.

I see it as an adventure.

A chance to prove myself.

We spend our morning trying to get things done without power.

School was moved to the brightest room.

Lunch was made with what might spoil first if it takes to long for the power to come back.

Clothes in the wash were hung on a rack.

Then, hours later I hear the hum of machines all starting up at the same time.

It is back on.

My other life has begun again.