Average Jane vs. the Cold

When A Librarian and I started walking our 3.4 mile route a couple of times a week, it was quite hot out, even at 6:00 a.m. I'd come home so overheated and sweaty that sometimes a cool shower didn't even help.

Once fall hit, we started strategizing about where we could walk once it got too cold out. I discovered that my local community center offers inexpensive passes that allow you to walk on their indoor track, so I figured that we'd get those and start our 34-lap marches of boredom in late October or early November.

As it turns out, we both seem to be developing pretty good tolerance for the cold. This morning it was about 36 degrees Fahrenheit and we both made it through our walk clad in sweat pants, hoodies layered over shirts, and head coverings. There was some discussion that long underwear would be nice, but so far we're hanging in there.

Far from looking forward to retreating inside, we're both rather fond of our route through the neighborhood and along part of downtown. The topography is varied, there's plenty to look at, and we've started recognizing some of the people we pass on the sidewalk.

At this point, I think we're in agreement that we'll keep up the outdoor walks until prevented by sleet, snow or other hazardous winter weather. Of course we aren't going to want to spend an hour outside in subzero temperatures, but as long as it's in the neighborhood of freezing or above, I think we can take it.

Now, indoors is another story. My office is uncomfortably cold (both at home and at work). Our TV room at home is chilly. Our bedroom window is drafty and I have to sleep in my robe and wear socks. You'd think that my newly-developed outdoor cold tolerance would make a difference, but it really doesn't. I guess it's time to dig the space heater out of storage.

Comments

[LuAnn]

Congrats to you and Librarian for 'keeping with the program.' I'm thinking pumpkin crepes at Chez Elle might be in order soon. Oui?

[Bonnie]

Before my neighbor blew out her knee and couldn't do hills any more, we walked our hilly neighborhood 5 days a week for 2 years. You will get used to the cold, just wear layers, and take along hand warmers. I agree, indoor tracks are so boring.