morning run: 8 am/42 degrees/austin, minnesota
jagged breaths
a graceless body
crisp cold air.
hard to speak
legs getting warmer
air is not.
nose dripping
eyes weeping in wind
hood stays up.
zipped jacket
muscles loosening
breathing slows.
longer strides
longer sentences
said out loud.
sleeves pulled up
hood comes off bare skin
is exposed.
a warm trunk
bent slightly forward
hands relaxed.
In 2 3
out 2. rhythmic breaths
slower pulse.
too bright sun
flashes through fir trees
steady feet.
quicker steps
sweat drips off tip of
ponytail.
winding trail
curves to right then left
ankles twist.
six loops run
warmed-up body and
warmer air.