I went out today to my local park for the first time since returning for a morning walk. 44°, a bit of a breeze, partly cloudy skies. My back has been acting up a bit since returning home, so getting out to walk was crucial. I’ve been wondering if the return of moisture in the air is having an effect. Arizona was so dry, and my back never gave me one ounce of trouble while there. Here at home, some large thunderstorms have come through, and I wonder if the increase in humidity combined with the decrease in elevation has anything to do with the pain. Notwithstanding all that, getting out to walk and move is essential to keep the joints lubricated, and today I managed to get in 1.6 miles on my usual path in the park.

Some of the old gang were still there. I think I saw Yankee Bob, but it was a bit difficult to tell from a distance. Ol' Sam with his dog was out, as well as Happy Sally. I noticed about 4 trees had been cut down along the path, no doubt victims of emerald ash borer disease. The lake was quiet and pretty still. I was tired by the end but happy to be able to accomplish the walk. I did two short walks in the neighborhood Monday and Tuesday, and I look forward to getting back into the rhythm of the routine.