I was forced to bundle up on this Christmas Eve day in what is normally sunny Florida. However, the temperature was 35 degrees as I took to the streets this morning. The knee-high compression socks that I wore were comforting and supportive. Most days it’s just too hot to wear but it definitely helps keep my muscles and joints warm. My times were even a bit faster despite a stiff breeze on the way out. It felt good on the way back – the cold air in my lungs reminded me of being on the ski slopes. It also made me recall the only time I’ve ever won my age division in a 10k race. This was probably over 25-years ago in temperatures well below zero and unmentionable wind chills. Obviously, few people showed up and even fewer finished, but I seemed to relish the challenge. 

Slow and steady is my motto these days, coinciding with my pace. There was one other runner that I spotted this morning guiding a dog on a leash. Our aging schnauzer Tally is usually only good for a short burst before she’s distracted by nearby smells. There was a time when she would tag along but not much anymore. My wife’s dog, Belle, when we first met, would actually wrap her leash around a mailbox post so she wouldn’t have to run with me. All my former pups -Gizmo, Smiley, Belle, Tinker, and Roxie – monitor my daily running streak from the heavens above, grateful that they don’t have to participate. Tally watches me pass by her dog park every morning and on occasion will come to the fence to greet me. 

We had “Date Night” at Big Mike’s Pizza last evening and especially enjoyed their Mac & Cheese Boulders. As is the tradition, we always visit a new restaurant on this occasion. We have no plans for Christmas tomorrow since the beach picnic is cancelled due to cold weather. It would have just been the two of us, since my ex-wife and her family is now in town, so we’ll wait until next week to get together for gifts with the grandkids. A movie matinee might be in order, even though it’s not Monday.