As I mature I find myself awaking and getting out of bed earlier and earlier. 

Early?  5:00ish to be exact.  

I manage my waking time and the requisite minimum 7 hours slumber by trying to be in bed by 9:30, supplemented by occasional afternoon naps.  

In doing so, I usually awake rested and ready to go and go I do.  I find the private time alone with my coffee so useful in getting so many things done and being ready for the challenges of the day ahead.  

Yes, it is dark now and more difficult, but it is still a functional luxury.  

It puts meaning to the old expressions “You have to get up pretty early in the morning…” and “The early bird gets the worm.”