A Different Kind of Cozy

Cozy. I find it in a soft blanket, a warm bed, and my morning beverage of choice—coffee.

I found a different kind of cozy the other day—bundling up and going for a run in subzero temperatures.

The sun was out and I had sorely missed it. There were clear trails and sidewalks to be found. I gratefully pulled on the various layers and gear that would allow me to move as well as avoid frostbite. It took some time, but as I layered up, I offered appreciation for socks, shoes, hats, gloves, lightweight running attire. Did I mention layers?

We headed out, my layered-up body and I. Into the sunshine. Into the blue. I left my glasses at home. They would have been a fogged-up mess. I am grateful I don’t need them to see my way safely ahead.

Well into my run, I paused to take this selfie:

Frosty face and fresh smile. A few random hairs that snuck out also got a coating of frost. I felt all cozy and snug. The closest I got to cold were the few times my face got hit with a shot of that lovely winter wind chill.

A different kind of cozy, but cozy all the same. My goal was sixty minutes. I ended up out there for 65 minutes—in honor of my sister Ann. It is her birthday today. I will let you guess how old she is. Happy birthday Ann!

Does this make me one of those crazy runner people? I don’t have a problem with that reference. I know how I felt while I was out there and when I got done. Sun and endorphins baby! Sun and endorphins!

I am a runner. I am a writer. These two truths have defined me longer than anything else in my life. Thank you for the opportunity to share both with you just now. Onward! One stride at a time . . .