// photo via BearKillers

Have you ever wondered what -40 degrees feels like? I’m not sure I’ve ever pondered such cold but thanks to the current conditions in ChiBeria, I can now fill you in. When I first moved out to Chicago I had no worries about the winters – growing up on the east coast I had seen my fare share of cold and snow, it wouldn’t be a problem. But Chicago cold is an entirely different kind of cold. It gets under your skin and burns your lungs. It’s hard to breath and your eyes tear and even though you’re bundled up in layers upon layers AND a hideous parka, you’re still just absolutely freezing.

As I sit here pondering why on earth I live in a place where it can feel like -40 degrees, I’ve reflected a bit on what I’ve learned living through Chicago winters (three!) – some key lessons:

• Everyone’s in it together: During the summer people come and go – the city’s full of tourists and while it’s all-around lovely, it’s not a very accurate representation of this city. But in the depths of winter, that’s when you can tell who is crazy enough to live here and the city is bonded together through this mutual level of insanity. One moment of eye contact while waiting for the El or shuffling down the sidewalk bracing yourselves against the wind and one thing is very clear, we’re all in this together.
• Being shapeless has some perks: At first I was totally bummed about having to succumb to the sleeping bag-style Northface parka. It felt like giving up any trace of winter style – it was shapeless, boring and exactly the same as everyone else. But you know what? Being shapeless has some perks. You know that feeling when you walk past someone and you know they’re staring at you like a piece of meat? You don’t have to worry about that with a parka. Enjoy it, ladies.
• Speedwalking is a sport: Although I love nothing more than a run along the lakefront during 3/4 of the year, I don’t mess around with winter running (I’m a wuss). Instead, I’ve discovered that speedwalking, in order to spend the least amount of time outside possible, is one hell of a workout. Pair walking as fast as you possibly can with struggling to breathe because of the frigid cold and you’ve actually got yourself a nice little cardio workout. Bonus points for speedwalk racing other pedestrians on the sidewalk.

For all of you also suffering in the Chicago cold today, I hope you’re doing your best to stay warm (aka not leaving your apartments). Take a moment today and think about the glory of summer in Chicago – it’s all going to be worth it.