How short a drive is too short?

[jwinkler]

My car and I have been spending too much time apart - to the point that I opt to skip a drive because I don't want to go through the hassle of getting it warmed up, listening and sniffing for problem sounds and smells, and the general paranoia around thinking something's sure to go wrong since it's been sitting too long.

So I have resolved to take the car on a short drive at least every other night to start to get to know and trust it again. My question is how long should that drive be? Do I just need to get the engine warm enough for the thermostat to open, a couple of dips into the secondaries, and an easy pace back home?

Any and all opinions appreciated - thanks -

JLW