Dear self,

You like your job.

I know you can see the sunny 78 degrees out of your office window all day and would rather spread out a blanket on the grass and read all day instead of run regressions on visitor data and hunt down more possible grant funds. But you like data and government money. So it's okay.

I know you would rather sit at the breakfast table on the screened-in porch, letting the soft morning light settle on your arms and cheeks. But running down the morning bus is good calisthenics.

I know that freshly baked chocolate chip cookies and an old sci-fi flick sound like just the thing tonight. But going to bed so you can wake up early again tomorrow has a reassuring Puritanical feel to it. Well, okay. Maybe there's time for the cookies.

Anyway, if nothing else, take comfort in knowing that you won't have to worry about this in 6 months from now. Michigan will change states of matter to solid ice, and being shut up in an office all day will be a pleasant alternative to braving the -10 degree terrain.

So in the meantime, enjoy the view of the Ginkgo tree outside your window.

Affectionately responsible,

Your better half