Running through winter.

What's colder, a south-westerly off Bass Straight (one of the roughest stretches of water in the world) or a northeasterly off the Victorian Alps?

Last night it was the wind off the snow. I could feel it 'burning' my cheeks as I ran north along Sydney Road as part of an 8k run including a lap of Princes Park. Brr.

The problem with Melbourne's weather (if it is a problem, which it probably isn't) is its unpredictability. Most really cold places have a predictability that allows you to accurately know what to wear or pack. Melbourne's weather can turn from one extreme to the other. One summer we were running in 42 degrees celsius (100-plus in Fahrenheit) when a cool change reduced the temperature by 24 degrees to just 18 celsius in thirty minutes.

Equally, in winter, a bitterly cold wind can spring up, making the wearing of several layers necessary. So it's possible to be caught out without hat, gloves or rainproof jacket.

Well, we have passed the winter solstice and the days get longer from now on.

When I got home, Goldie was bouncing around like a new pup, ready for a walk. She walks rain or shine. Not like poor Billy, who would dig his heels in at the sight of a wet footpath. We miss him very much.