Baby it’s cold outside

The weather’s been running at twenty, so the outdoor ice rinks are open. I lace up my skates, stand and wobble a bit as I breathe out a cloud of condensate.

Two laps later and I’m exhausted. I pant and recall when I could easily skate two laps backwards.

There’s no going backwards now.

My granddaughters bring me my cane and help me change from skate to shoe.

So innocent and adorable.

They haven’t a clue.