Dec 1, 1999

Every year I have this apprehension about going out into the cold for my daily runs. The funny thing about it is that, once I get going, I love winter running.

This year was not any different. The temperatures here dropped suddenly into the low teens and sub-zero wind-chill factors. Not wanting to face the harsh elements that this climate can bring, I hunted through my junk drawer for my gym card and headed for the indoor treadmills.

That lasted about a week. Thinking I could not stand another day on the treadmill, I decided I had to take the plunge. Dressing for a cold, dark night of 12 degrees and a slight wind, I headed out the door.

Immediately I could feel the cool wind at my face. I actually thought it refreshing, and all of a sudden I was just exhilarated to be outside running. The scene of the snow-covered Chugach Mountains against the dark night sky in the distance was awesome. (Cathy Peterson, Anchorage, Alaska)

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