Dave, has it been that long already since you had the back surgery? Time sure flies....Since my car accident almost 8 years ago my knee is my best barometer! And my ankle/foot ain't too bad either.....I agree with you about the cold, but after our brief time in NC with a different type of chill, NY weather doesn't bother me at all any more...and I'm lucky enough to have an at-home job where I don't have to go out in in if I don't want to! Stay warm and send us some sunshine whenever you can.