Sunday, January 9, 2011

Cold

The first real coat I ever bought was the year I studied abroad.  In England.  That's the first time I remember being really, really cold.  (It was a lovely navy blue peacoat that I found at a Marshalls- or Ross-like discount retailer, and probably the most I'd ever spent on an individual garment.  I found it the other day as we've been cleaning out my parents' old house.  Yes, I let it go.)

When my  neck, fingers, and toes are cold, I can't function properly.  When my feet are cold (as they are now), I can't sleep.  This is where a good hand-knit accessory becomes invaluable.  Scarves, mitts, socks: yes, please!

During my first winter in Japan, I wore two scarves at a time, wrapping my head and neck with only a sliver open to see as I rode my bike to and fro. No peripheral vision but it didn't matter much because I was the only one on the road, everyone else having access to a car or a friend with a car.  Coworkers would tell me that they saw me riding to work.  "Why didn't you pick me up?!?!" I would often think to myself...  I still remember Japanese winters as the kind that make your marrow cold.  Thank goodness for nabe dishes and kotatsu.

I don't run because my ears get cold.  Most people are incredulous when they hear this.  But it's true.  Even in warmer months, simply brushing up against the air makes my ears cold, which starts a headache, which renders me pretty much miserable.  Someone suggested a headband.  So on my to-knit list: Calorimetry.  Sooner rather than later, as I've got a 10K for which to start training!

Growing up in Southern California sure spoils a gal to seasons.

3 comments:

  1. I have the SAME issue with my ears, neck, hands and feet. They cannot be cold. My ears are ESPECIALLY sensitive. If they're hit by even the slightest cold breeze, my head starts to pound. Which is why I have earbags. Yup, that's right...earbags: http://www.solutions.com/jump.jsp?itemType=PRODUCT&itemID=16452

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  2. I experience the same thing with my ears! If it's below 75 and I ride my bike, the wind across my ears invariably gives me a headache, so I usually ride with a bandana (thin enough to fit under a helmet) ear/headband.

    Calorimetry is a fun pattern, but be sure to check the Ravelry comments on it. The number of CO stitches specified in the pattern will yield something wide enough to fit around your waist!

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  3. You studied abroad in England...you have to tell me all about it some time!

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