pushing the season

it has been a rainy, chilly (and now the weather gods have added windy) week in new england. ann was dodging traffic down comm ave. yesterday and remarked that all the college students tend to push the season... in both directions. note that it is in the mid-50s here in boston, yet there is a strange assortment of big burly white-capped guys in sweatshirts, cargo shorts, and flip-flops that just made ann want to shiver at the sight. and on the other end of the spectrum, there are students donning parkas, ski caps, scarves, and gloves that made her want to approach each one and shake 'em with the warning: it's october, folks, winter in new england hasn't even begun.

so here is ann and dabney's advice for the first-year college student who's never experienced a real winter in the northeast: take a tiered approach to the coldest time of year.

first, the all-important jacket - not too light, not too heavy. that kicks in right about now, october. pants and closed-toe shoes SHOULD GO WITHOUT SAYING.


as the degrees drop, and when you are ready, perhaps add a scarf.


when mid-november hits, upgrade to a slightly warmer coat. you can get one that's still stylish yet practical. gloves, or in dabney's case, wrist warmers, then join the repetoire.


when it is finally and undeniably cold, and the nor'easters come raging, then chuck your dignity at the door. pile on anything you can get your hands on. out come the silk long underwear, the ski pants, and the gore-tex boots. then ride it out 'til spring.


if you don't believe ann and dabney, take it from feidler. he knows a good scarf when he sees one.


good luck and stay warm.