A brief list of the mornings Ups and Downs

This emotional roller coaster took place roughly between the hours of 9:00 and 10:30 a.m. Buckle up for safety!

1. 9:00. Wake up, look to alarm, realize I have twenty minutes to get ready for work. Panic=down.
2. Lilly is really loud and REALLY wants attention this morning. "Got no time, baby."=down.
3. As I sit to make the turn onto Lincoln Ave. from Foster, I see a CTA bus driver waiting at the stop across the street. Dancing. Dancing well. Like to Scat/jazz or something on his Ipod. And snapping his fingers. Smile=up.
4. Remember dream last night which starred my last two girl friends. The overwhelming feeling recalled is regret and yearning. Dreams that leave crummy feeling residue=bad. Dreams with ex-girlfriends that keep all their clothes on= double down.
5. Hit stretch of Lincoln Ave. that is lined with trees. Notice leaves are changing. Pretty colors=up.
6. Remember that fall is my favorite season (and spring). Love the crisp smell, cool temps (sweaters!). Fall=up.
7. Changing of seasons always brings nostalgic feelings and memories of school. Missing school (still? wtf?!?)= down.
8. Get to work two minutes early= up.
9. Both the Store Manager and Assistant Store Manager are at corporate meetings= Double Ups!
10. J.S.'s hair is down with snug pants= up.
11. Find out J.S. has a boyfriend= down.
12. But they broke up last week= hmmm. up and down.
13. I have to work in the slowest department= even.
14. First customer of the day's breath smells like rotting salami= down.

Okay, the ride is over, please exit the car on your right. Make sure all your belongings are on you.

[Ed note-if this had been an actual amusement park ride, your money would have been refunded. Sorry.]