The first signs of winter are here. Like… really here. Like… i wore 4 layers on top and 2 on bottom today. I was still cold. I’m in the market for a ski mask. I walk 20 minutes to school… up hill both ways. Seriously, it really is. Don’t believe me? www.delta.com. Come see for yourself. Now that winter is here my normal routine is to put on as many layers of clothes as possible and then put a jacket on over that. Next, i put on my scarf, then… this is important, stay with me… then i must put in my iPod BEFORE the gloves. The sequence is key because if i put on the gloves first then i can’t control my iPod through the gloves. Then out the door, down the stairs, 20 minutes to school. My face is usually frozen, but i’ve got good music and my hands are warm.

Here’s a big difference between cold in the states and cold in China.

Cold in the states = you put on some warm clothes, but really, you’re just walking from the front door to the car, then from the car to your office or school or wherever.

Cold in China = You’re always outside. Walking, riding buses, waiting for buses, waiting for taxis, walking some more. In China you experience the elements a lot more than in the states.

I was waiting for the bus tonight at McDonald’s and i realized that i really like the idea of bundling up, facing the frigid air and feeling the warmth of my home. Sure, i’ll be ready for Thailand soon, but for now… the cold ain’t so bad.