*took a shower
*caught 5 buses
*shopped at 2 stores
*had a short conversation
*ate a partial breakfast
*all before 8 a.m.!

While I'm not always ready for mornings, like at 5:05 when I woke up before the alarm, hoping it was only 3, it sure does feel good to get a lot lot done during that time.  We're having an office party today- someone is moving to a new department (but in the same suite)- so I picked up some soda on the way.  The first place I went only had obscure flavors left, and while I personally don't mind, since I don't drink soda, i'm bringing it for others- so I left empty-handed, and went on my merry way.  Well, it wasn't quite merry, 'cause I was worried that I wouldn't have enough time to go another place, depending on the buses, etc... but then a few minutes later, a bus stops by.  it's kind of like when other things that don't pertain to you are going on and you tune them out.  It wasn't 'my bus' (there are 3 that I'm familiar w/ that pick me up at that location and get me to work), but I looked at the destination, and it's in the right direction.  I could pick up another bus from there!  So I hopped on (only one other passenger), and felt the warmth and had one of the best rides ever!  At first, it went directly towards the Metro destination.  I was impressed!  Then, it turned, and wound around obscure, wonderful streets.  (btw, there weren't any route maps on this bus)  It wound, and wound, and I loved looking at the unique houses and landscapes, and thinking how the places look lived-in, and wondering what sort of lives the occupants live.  I also enjoyed a 'Bumps Ahead' sign (photo courtesy stockphoto.  It seemed quite appropriate- both in the physical bumps and those more psychological.
So as my journey continued, I realized we had gone way past the Metro, and were going in some sort of wide circle- I recognized some landmarks, and got off near a major road that my more familiar buses come by.  I was able to pick up some soda and even take the most convenient bus to work.

This weekend will be fun!!   Tonight, I'm meeting with one of my favorite people, to do some planning and also just hanging out.  Tomorrow includes hiking and meeting some new people and a picnic-style lunch and a really great guy...  So, hope you all have a great weekend!