From inside our apartment, the day looked gray and gloomy. I was sure it was still Chicago-no-spring cold outside. Without checking anywhere for the temperature, I headed outside with my short (have put the long, sleeping bag coat away until next winter) down coat on. Surprise! It was 68 degrees outside and almost muggy. No need for jackets and coats, not even sweatshirts. Will there be a spring here this year? Hard to say. It wouldn’t surprise me if it snowed next week. But here’s hoping we are actually on the other side of winter.

Now, where have I been for the past several weeks? Did I, once again, relapse into old bad habits? Getting myself into pretty good shape only to let it all atrophy in a slow and painful process? No! I am happy to report. I have been searching around, trying different exercise options, and still, actually, in the process of figuring out what comes next. I have mostly been doing P90X, DVDs that allow me to exercise at home and at 5 in the morning — which I can’t believe I am saying that I love! It leaves me more time to work during the weekdays, and by 6:15 am, I am cheerful because I am done with exercise. I love that! There is also a compare/contrast essay to be written on Tony Horton (“leader of the band,” P90X band, that is) and Jack LaLanne. How do you like the claim on the P90x website: “Get absolutely ripped in 90 days, or your money back, guaranteed.” Apparently Tony was influenced by Jack. Not sure Tony’s as charming. The workouts are much harder and that same compare/contrast essay could explore lots about the evolution of fitness, especially for women.

I also have the challenge in front of me of getting prepared for the Chicago Triathlon, which I’ve signed up for and am hoping to complete on August 28. Olympic Distance: .93 mile swim; 24.8 mile bike; 6.2 mile run. For now I’m in the thick of p90x and will launch the triathlon training plan in late May. I’d love any advice anyone can offer about p90x, triathlons, or anything else!