Walking

It was close to 8:00 as I put on my shoes, and grabbed my wallet. I could hear the kids splashing in the bathtub, and Tanner muttering something about not getting water on the floor. I quietly let myself out of the side door, and hesitated on the door step. I was debating whether to take the car to the mall and enjoy a brisk walk in air conditioned comfort, or if I should grab a bottle of water to help combat heat fatigue and brave the sun baked outdoors.

Bottle of water in hand and sunglasses donned, I started my solo trek. I don't like walking in quiet neighborhoods alone, so I headed for the nearest major thoroughfare. I love feeling the hot air swish around me suddenly as a speeding car goes by. The sun was still unbearably bright, and I found myself squinting despite the sunglasses. Luckily, I would be walking with the sun at my back for the greater part of the trip, and I hoped that when I turned around, the sun would be setting behind the Tower.

A nice, swarmy wind started up just as I began my walk, so I managed to stay cool. I passed tempting ice cream stands and snow cone stands and McDonalds and a Sonic Burger, but I pressed on without turning to the right or to the left. I had better, purer things on my mind. I was headed for the book store. I knew I could achieve a half hour of uninterrupted browsing pleasure with the promise of an undiscovered treasure. In reality, it was a great place to cool off before heading back home.

The walk home was even better than the walk to the book store. The sun had just sunk behind the Tower, and a thin blanket of clouds turned from white to 90's melon sorbet complete with iridescent shimmer. The wind settled down to the flat stillness of a Texan evening, and I had a sudden craving for lemonade with a sprig of mint and lots of ice. Luckily, home was just around the next bend, and I had a few more sips of water left.