We are in the Middle of a Terrible Ice Storm

We are in the middle of a terrible ice storm. Currently, there's about 0.75 to 1.0 inches of freezing rain and sleet on the ground and it's still coming down heavy. Fortunately there has been much more sleet than freezing rain, so the precipitation is not sticking to the branches and power lines so much, as it is bouncing off. It's ironic that all of this is happening in Dallas, TX, where I am writing this, and not back home in Spokane, WA. A week ago I had the bright idea to get out of my rut and fly south to visit my mom and get some sun. Oh well. Better luck next time.

The longer I go about it, the more related Zen and making art mirror one another. For example, when we are deep into our work, we are not thinking about it - were just doing it. But when we start questioning it, start criticizing it, start doubting it, then the wheels fall off. To practice perfectly well is not the point - although one would hope that the practice is good. The point is to practice or resume the practice should you find yourself questioning and doubting. Sometimes, getting away, and looking at things from the outside can help.

My running is continuing to progress, and after a day of rest yesterday, I felt good today while jogging along White Rock Lake. Eating erratically and not the greatest, has left me slightly constipated but the soft footing found from striding over the fresh layer of sleet, helped soften the jostling. When I got back to the house, I did a strength routine consisting of:

• 25 push ups

• 25 sit ups

• 1 minute plank

• 2 x 10 back kicks (ea. leg)

• 2 x 10 fire hydrants (ea. leg)

• 2 x 25 lunges

• 20 calf raises (10 w/ both feet + 10 ea. foot)

• 2 x 25 squats