Global Warming Climate Change and MY TRAIL...
So, what's the big deal about a little degree change here and there?

Early this morning, I watched the current weather channel for the magic "36 degree" mark - that's the coldest I'm willing to take my 4 legged friends out onto my trail for a walk - although they both have coats. Also, at 36 degrees, I don't have to wear a heavy coat, my Polartec parka keeps me warm enough - not toasty, but if I walk fast enough...

It seemed like it was taking an awful long time for the 36 number, so when I saw 35, I said, "Let's Go!" and Suessie and Sadie leaped joyfully, ready! I figured by the time we got to the trail... 2 minutes from now... it would be 36, just right.

NOOOOOOOOOOOO! I was so cold, my face was freezing, my hands were locked, I was shaking and miserable. That 1 little degree is not as unimportant as I assumed just 2 minutes before, while cozied up in my little house and protected on the short drive to the trail.

After a brisk 12 minutes, I gave up on my degree and loaded the confused desert dawgs back into the van. Apologies not accepted. I repeated the words "too cold!" - and yet, they refused to smile.

The sun didn't do it's daily morning sun job and I was going to wait for 38 degrees THIS day... to heck with shivering again! Finally, about noon, the magic number arrived and with the help of my new cashmere scarf and gloves from my sister, we had a fine, extra-long walk in the warm temperature of ... just a few degrees more.

I appreciate degrees. I understand them very well.