Muscle Memory and Fatigue

What can be better than a run of stormy weather to end summer? I am ready. Don't get me wrong, summer's great. Hiking, biking and sitting at your favorite outdoor cafe are all better in the sunshine. On the other hand, I have a definite heat threshold and it's much lower than most people. By the time the thermometer edges towards the upper seventies, I'm looking for shade. Into the eighties, and I'm looking for air conditioning. By the time we cross into the nineties, I've lost my sense of humor and I'm all done playing. Summer is great, but I'm ready to move on to the next exciting season.

Back to school, turning leaves, the first frost of the year; all sure signs fall is here. I love the feeling of stepping outside on a cold morning and feeling the brisk air on my face. The brace of cold makes me feel alive, whereas heat and humidity cause me to be lethargic. I'm not suggesting one season is better than the other. What I really look forward to is the anticipation of change.

This year I'm looking forward to the change of seasons with a new mind. For the first time in many years I can look forward to climbing Mt Pilchuck in October; when you can stand in the cold air and see forever. This year I'm going to ski. Not like I have in recent years, with muscle memory and fatigue after two or three runs. Not this year. This year I'm going to run with the big dogs.

My life has changed in ways I never dared dream. It's more than just inches and pounds. The weight is coming off my body, mind and soul. This weekend, as we were driving home from an afternoon of fine dining and beach walking, Michelle said, "It feels like we are living again."

My instinct is to dwell on the past and lament the time lost, but I can't. That's the former me. This guy sees changing seasons and the opportunity they bring. This guy sees the love of his life and what a blessing she is. This guy sees just how fortunate he is.

I'm a lucky guy.