My Winter Garments of Repentance

Begin with a warm coat. Forget the ski jacket. You want a coat that goes at least down to your knees, and it must have a lining. Pockets are essential--

the deeper the better.

Heavy barn coat with warm lining and deep pockets

But on the coldest days even a long coat isn't enough. 

You need leggings 

(over cozy, drawstring exercise pants 

over your jeans over your tights).

Leggings

Keeping hands warm is important. 

You can't keep your hands in your pockets outdoors and get very far, 

so good, heavy, lined gloves are a must.

Gloves

Then there are the days when a little cap isn't enough--

not if you're going to stay outdoors any length of time at all. 

That's when you throw all concern for fashion out the window and-- 

dress like a lumberjack! 

This wool helmet is fleece lined and has earflaps and a fold-down forehead visor.

Wool helmet and warm scarf

Face mask

David thinks my face mask looks scary.
Doesn't it appear to be smiling?
There are days outdoors when I would not be smiling without it!

The "Outfit"!

And there you have it--at least from head to knees....

Boots--ESSENTIAL!

But don't forget boots, and they must be lined, waterproof, and warm! 

If head, hands, and feet are warm, you'll be fine.

Options for warmer days

Of course not every winter day is an Arctic day,

and on warmer days a light cap and less bulky mittens will do,

especially in the sun.

Not pictured here are the warm socks or underlayers for body and legs.

The rest of my outdoor kit included 

a folding beach chair (carried in its own case with shoulder strap),

binoculars,

sketchbook,

pen, pencils, eraser, and pencil sharpener.