Winter 2021-22: Baby, it's cold outside

Winter has arrived in Wisconsin, a little later than in the past two years and a bit earlier than in many parts of the (more southern) United States.

Nothing more than a trace of snow, but the temperature has changed dramatically in the last two weeks, despite an occasional, brief warm wave.

I have adopted a Wisconsin weather mind frame, which to me means four months of pretty harsh temperatures, from the start of December to the end of March. Cabin fever will persist through most of that time. Nonetheless, walking is not off my agenda and walking at night is more viable for the first time in our two years in Harrison, with the sidewalks and streets complete. I find the evening to be less harsh, typically due to less wind than during the day. Although my walking mileage will be down from 2020, I fully expect to surpass 1100 miles, after about 1300 miles in 2020.

My new StreetStride has been a disappointment, as I greatly underestimated the upper body strength and lung capacity needed to handle the elliptical bicycle. Nonetheless, I think that better attention to diet in the coming year, coupled with continuing walking, could produce a better managed weight in my 71st year.

Today, Gaby should join her sister with Dena and me in Harrison for the next seven days. Such gatherings will likely become rarer and shorter in the coming years so we will take them as they arise.