My ice planet Hoth

So anyone who even vaguely knows me, knows how much I hate the cold. I think it must be the German blood. Even in summer I carry a warm top – just in case it gets cold. So on an average day in Japan I wear: Leggings, a vest, 2 pairs of socks, a long top, jersey, pants and a jacket – accessorised with a stick on Hokairo, and one in the pocket for extra measure. I would wear a scarf but I am verboten at school. I do have a Linus blankly though.

So when I initially agreed to come to the Arct…Asia, it was under the impression that Japan (being the high-tech country that it is) would be prepared for winter. It was only once I got here that I was told that there is nothing. They can handle an earthquake but apparently they haven’t quit conquered the annoying little hyperthermia problem.

So anywho, I was now faced with a summer of giant spiders and a winter of extreme cold and frostbite. And honestly I can’t decide which is worse so far.

This morning was particularly bad. I know this because I was cold under my pile of duvets and blankets. I could see my breath in my lounge – and that was after drinking coffee. I think this would have a lot to do with the fact that it was it was 8°C, inside, according to my aircon.

I really love the way that every heating device comes with a thermometer so you know exactly how much you are suffering and how ineffectual it actually is. And it is all very well having a heater in the living areas but where it really counts is the Frozen Throne that is the bathroom and toilet. I mean after all it is the one place where you remove the layers of protective thermal underwear. I am seriously considering that the risk value of “electrocution in return for warmth” may actually be worth it.

In fact 2 weeks ago I gave in and bought a kerosene heater. I was initially sceptical what with the dangers of flammable liquids, and not to mention the smell. But after receiving my electricity bill for the relatively (in retrospect) tolerable October, I decided that it might not be too bad. And it was worth it.

At first it was a bit like crawling into the stomach of a disembowelled tauntaun, but when it is as cold as it is here, and when you have my lower than average body temperature, you change your mind faster then the growing list in Tiger Wood’s little black book.

Oh and I forgot the best part. While I already have to defrost each morning, my teachers take great delight in informing me that it is really not to bad and it is only going to get worse – come February. I can’t help but think that they are trying to get rid of me.

I was particularly bitter this morning. Firstly, due to the fact that I woke up cold. Which is partly my own fault because after discovering that my heater was out of gas I was too lazy to go and fill it up. So I couldn’t set the timer so I could wake up toasty. And then despite the insane cold there was no snow. It would be the one compensation for the さむい (cold) torture from which I am suffering.

Then to my delight it started to snow! It was wonderful. Well it wasn’t real snow at first – just that initial icy stuff you get. But for an African I think it counts. It then later became more ‘snowy’ - if you could say that - with bigger flakes. Sadly it didn’t stick. It all seemed to melt as it hit the ground. Regardless it was enough keep me smiling for the rest of the day. Unfortunately for my 三年生 (3rd years) they are outside competing in their 3rd year sports day, while I get to stay in the (finally) heated staff room.

Hopefully it will continue to snow through the weekend when I can take advantage of the cold and keep warm whilst watching movies and drinking Milo… now that is hypothermia prevention.