It is mid November; I can’t believe winter is just around the corner. Average temperature now is around 8 by day and -1 by night and it will keep dropping as we approach winter. How I wish the weather is warmer, how I wish temperature is not going up and down, day and night … The other day I was talking to Finche who lives in LA and she told me that winter in LA usually is like around 15 degree Celsius … … … that is like Autumn in Toronto … how unfair!! As much as I appreciate winter, I hate the cold. But having survived winter in North America, one has learned the essential tricks to survive the downfalls of winter:
- The air can become very dry. When I said air, I meant air inside the house (apartment, etc.). As the heater is turned on, humidity in the air is reduced, leaving our skin very dry. For those working with documents, paper cuts happen most often during this season *Ouch!!* . Survival tips: lots of hand or body lotion. Lip balm is also of utmost importance.
- Apart from survival tips no.1, there are gadgets which can aid in reducing dryness in the air. Meet the humidifier! This thing lets out humid air. Thank god there is such thing as humidifier.
- If you are outside working or walking, a good, good winter coat is essential. However, winter coat alone is not enough as the coldness will eventually get to you. Therefore, hats, shawls and gloves are very important too. Also, a good pair of boots or shoes is essential.
- Driving can be difficult especially when there is wet snow or if there is freezing rain which makes the road icy and slippery. Survival tips: Drive according to road condition. Driving during winter shall by no means be treated the same as driving during the non-winter months. Get ready and head out early to allow extra time on the road.
It will be a big hassle not to have/do either one of the above for winter. Well, if you live in a house or some place lower level, you probably don’t need a humidifier. And if all of the above is utilized/applied, one can sit back, relax and enjoy the great winter for most of the good things happen during winter … Christmas holiday, parties, New Year holiday, more parties … Oh, now I can’t wait for winter.
