New Coldest Morning So Far

      It could have been worse.  A low of 26°F was forecast, to be reached right at waking-up time.  Instead, it was 29° at six this morning.  Or at least it was according to the closest weather station.

      The new alarm arrived Saturday and I installed it Sunday.  I also did several hours of woodworking in the cold, cutting, trimming and sanding another high-level shelf for my bedroom.  The temperature sank from the mid-40s to 40 while I worked outside, somewhat sheltered from the worst of the wind in the yard between the house and the garage.  In work gloves, hat and coat, I didn't quite notice the cold.  Oh, it was chilly, all right, but not that bad as long as I kept moving.  When I went back into the house, it was toasty warm, which turned out to be a cozy 63°.

      It was Robert A. Heinlein (in Have Space Suit, Will Travel) where I first learned that humans produce plenty of heat -- the problem in cold conditions is keeping the heat in.  (And, once you've got enough insulation, not marinating in your own damp.)  Years ago, one of my co-workers (his fictional partial counterpart on the Hidden Frontier is "Handsome Dave') got me in the habit of always doing everything except fine work in gloves and it pays off not just in fewer cuts and splinters, but in being able to work comfortably (and unfrustrated) in chilly weather.  He passed away far too young, so I can't thank him today.  But I can remember him when I share his advice: Don't play the tough guy, wear gloves for heavy work, all time -- and you'll be able to work well in them when it gets so cold you have to have them.