10 degrees and getting colder

This Dunn Brothers is crowded today. Usually, during the semester there is much less noise and more open tables. But today, a day before school begins, everyone seems to be busy at work as if finals were upon us. Though there are more smiles here than finals week would suggest.

I don’t mind the beginning of the semester. Actually, I hate then end of it--the necessity of grades and grading.

The temperature—again, returning to the weather when there is nothing pressing to say, has presence but not substance. There are no degrees, but there is weather. I actually went running in it today--when the thermometer hovered about zero. I used to run regularly in this type of climate, but this seems to be the first time I’ve thought that perhaps it is too cold to attempt going out into the weather. When Gary is about, there is usually no issue, but alone I lack some courage. But I forced my way out, and though the sound track was not great, it was sufficient and I made the loop—between 6 and 6 ½ miles. There were a few other hardy runners out there, but little mutual acknowledgment. Just amazed to come upon another soul, she kept running.

Today this environment intrigues me. I like the mix. I'm glad I am here today.