Celeste cracked open one eye and looked directly into the huge brown eyes of her younger son, who stood right next to her bed. “Mommy, Dakota says get up and don’t sleep the day away.” She sat up in bed and looked over at the clock. The red digital numbers stared back at her, telling her that she was over an hour past her usual waking time of eight a.m. With young children in the house, she never had the luxury of sleeping in—ever. “Get up, Mommy, we’re having pancakes.” He pulled at the covers. “I’m wearing my rock star shirt today.” Jackson ran out of the room and down the stairs yelling, “I woke up Mommy!” Celeste threw back the covers and eased herself out of bed. Stretching her arms upward, she tried to rid herself of the unfamiliar aches that plagued her after her recent activities. She grimaced, unsure of whether to smile or frown about how she had spent the earlier part of her night. After a quick shower and an even quicker glance in the mirror, she dressed and descended the stairs, dragging her feet on the risers.
