Perpetual Ruminations

A Brisk Walk Indeed

I know, a brisk walk means a moderate-intensity walk that's faster than a leisurely stroll but not so fast that you can't carry on a conversation. Yesterday, however, I discovered what a "brisk" walk really is.

It was sunny and my wife had the day off, so we wanted to take the two dogs out and let them burn off some energy. By noon it was only five degrees Fahrenheit, and there was a slight wind blowing, so we bundled up before headed to the State Park. After getting there we let the dogs out to play and walked the campground loop they keep plowed. It's adjacent to the lake and the wind was coming across without anything to block or slow it.

The snow off the road was up to Max's belly, and for Bellah it was almost as deep as she is tall. but they ran, jumped, and enjoyed themselves as well as keeping us entertained as we walked. But that wind went through our clothing and soon we were chilled and ready to go. The dogs fared better and would have enjoyed staying longer, but it was just too cold for us.

Listening to the radio as we drove back home we were informed we were under a wind-chill advisory with values of minus twenty-six below! The temperature had continuously dropped, not risen, and the wind had intensified. Yes, it was a enjoyable walking, but our pace was brisk as we hurried back to the warm vehicle to get out of the brisk winter air and the brisk wind chilling our bones.