COLD MORNINGS
There's no use crying when a cold front pushes down from the pole. The hot air won't stop it. Wake up a few minutes early, drape wool socks, long johns, gloves, hat onto the vermiform radiator as it belches its morning steam.

The air is dry and I'm thirsty. I take down two full glasses of water as the low sun gradually illuminates the southeast. I dress and bundle, my gloves hot, hat warm, and insert ear buds. Kiss Lauren goodbye. She twists in the comforter, too comfortable for morning yet.

I go out the front door, down the stairs, out another pair of doors and into it.

Good Friday.

RECOGNIZE
The recognition.

SO...
Lauren and I are engaged. To be married.

And I'm pretty happy about that.