The Corner of Hanes and Westgate

My alarm rings at 6:00 A.M. each morning. I start my day by dashing cold water over my sleepy face, brushing my teeth, grabbing my bathrobe and heading to the kitchen where I start brewing my coffee. While I wait for the pot to fill with the steamy, aromatic liquid that will energize my day, I sit down for a few moments of quiet time and writing in my journal. I follow this routine every morning, without exception.

After enjoying several cups of fresh ground Colombian, I feed the dog and head for the shower. Next comes makeup, packing lunches for the kids, agonizing over three different outfits, deciding which shoes to wear, and arguing with my husband over whose turn it is to take the dog out for his morning walk. This routine varies somewhat, but still stays basically consistent.

As the clock ticks upwards to 7:50, the last minute rush is in full swing and I am making sure everyone has their homework, bookbags, lunches, and is ready for school. I grab my purse and bookbag, soothingly comfort the dog with assurances of my return, and dash to my car, ready for a day of work and school.

But I wait until the corner of Hanes and Westgate to apply my lipstick.

Each morning, I think I will take the time to apply my lipstick correctly, in an unhurried fashion, in front of my bathroom mirror. I think I will start with a nice pat of foundation, followed by carefuly lining, filling in with lipcolor, and then glossing my lips to perfection. And each morning finds me at the same intersection, reaching for my liner and lipstick while I wait for the light to turn green.

I'm sure the regulars on Hanes Mall Boulevard have become used to my routine at the red light -- especially the man in the black mercedes who sits impatiently tapping his fingers on the steering wheel as he waits for the green, glancing amusedly my way as he watches the beautification process. Then there's the car behind me who watches the light with intensity, beeping at me the nano-second it changes color.

Would setting my alarm for 5:55 A.M. make a difference? It might, but then who would provide entertainment at the light that takes forever to turn green? I guess I'll stick to my routine.