Photo credit: Judith Firestien
I never considered myself a morning person.
When I’m deep into a book project, I often hit my creative stride around 10 p.m. and go for a few hours. That doesn’t exactly lend itself to early mornings.
But toward the end of last year, I started experimenting with a morning practice—reading, journaling, and a bit of meditation. It was a gentle, quiet way to begin the day.
At the farm, I found myself naturally waking up at 5:30 or 6:00 a.m.—still on East Coast time. At first, I thought, What am I doing up this early? But then I realized: this was the perfect opportunity to lean into the morning routine I had only been dabbling with in Buffalo.
About 12 years ago, my sister Judy Firestien had an idea: she wanted a place on the farm where you could see a panoramic view of the Rockies and the plains that surround our land. She shared the vision with a contractor who had never built anything like it before. He took on the challenge, and five weeks later the Skydeck was complete.
It rises almost 20 feet off the ground and offers a stunning view of the front range and the farmland below. It’s become more than just a viewing platform—it’s a gathering place. Judy has hosted weddings, picnics, educational events, and even memorial services there.
Photo credit: Judith Firestien
Back in Buffalo, I built a pond with a waterfall next to the stream that marks the edge of my property. Over the years, it’s been the backdrop for wonderful parties and evenings filled with music. But when the weather is warm, it also becomes my quiet morning spot.
The Skydeck in Colorado. The pond in Buffalo. Two very different places, but both sacred spaces for reflection.
But here’s the thing:
You don’t need a Skydeck.
You don’t need a pond.
You don’t need an heirloom writing desk.
Why Morning Rituals Matter
Morning rituals don’t have to be complex. But they do have to be yours. These small habits practiced shortly after waking can shape your entire day.
Here’s what they offer:
- Set the Tone
They help you start the day on your terms instead of reacting to your phone or your to-do list. - Boost Mental Clarity
Quiet, focused time clears the mind and creates space for new thoughts. - Enhance Creativity and Focus
The early morning hours—before the world rushes in—are ideal for reflection and deep work. - Strengthen Mind-Body Connection
Whether you stretch, meditate, or simply breathe, your body gets the message: “We’re starting the day with care.” - Build Consistency
Over time, small rituals grow into a sense of rhythm and momentum that carries through the day.
Photo credit: Judith Firestien – Rocky Mountains from the skydeck
A Few Famous Morning Ritualists
Many creative and successful people have relied on morning rituals to ground and inspire them:
- Benjamin Franklin planned his day after breakfast and famously asked himself, “What good shall I do this day?”
- Steve Jobs asked, “If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?”
- Georgia O’Keeffe walked her desert land at dawn and painted in natural light.
- Frida Kahlo began her days with reflection and often painted self-portraits in the morning.
- Toni Morrison wrote before sunrise—when her mind was clearest.
- Ernest Hemingway did the same, writing in the quietest part of the morning when he felt most refreshed.
You don’t need to be a famous artist or writer to start your day with intention.
A time.
A pause.
What’s your morning ritual?
Where do you go to begin your day?
Photo credit: Judith Firestien
In 2009 because of its historical significance, the farm was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
To learn more about our family farm, visit: www.BracewellFarm.com
