Not Acclimating

Another weekend gone by without running. Between the heat, the yard work, and the magnetism of my porch, my intentions to log some miles went by the wayside.

Summer arrived early, and it has been hot! We usually have a little more time to acclimate to the heat in Northeast Ohio.

While last week started off well with my after-work runs, Friday came and spoiled that trend. But at least the dog got me out the door for some decent walks, which were done barefoot in the off chance I ever get around to running barefoot again.

Instead of running Saturday, I waited around most of the day for the shade to fill my backyard so I could cut the grass without roasting.

The porch lured me in Sunday, providing a shady spot to pick my banjo, read my book, just laze about.

In fact, the porch ensnared me Friday, Saturday and Sunday, as the neighborhood has been involuntarily serenaded with the sweet thunk-a-thunk of my five-string.

The kids walking by have even started to get into the act, once by humming the hook of "Dueling Banjos" and another time rapping over my playing the tune "Candy Girl."

Oh, yes, they do seem to enjoy it, as I've seen them staring and heard them laughing. What else could it be but the signs of happiness?

My running clothes are in a duffel bag behind me, awaiting the five o'clock whistle. Maybe today's heat will help me get used to this early summer weather.