As I looked out my office window, I saw the neighborhood kids out in the cul-de-sac, whizzing by in their rollerblades, obviously enjoying the clement Sunday (73 degrees Fahrenheit). We have opened most of our windows to let some fresh air in and bask in the gentle cool breeze wafting through. Earlier in the afternoon, Kenny took our doggies to the dog park for some canine socialization and exercise. They came home so tired and sedated that we are pretty much guaranteed a tranquil night of TV viewing. After attending a kid’s birthday bash last night, it would be great just to kick back and watch the finale episode of John Adams tonight. This HBO series has truly educated me more about the American history than any other books or annals. I highly recommend it.
At the party, a friend of mine recounted an interesting anecdote about her father. He wasn’t such a big fan of the winter season and he probably couldn’t wait to go back home to the Philippines. After living in the US for almost a year, his wish was granted and the family went back to visit the home country recently. Apparently, upon their exit from the NAIA airport, he started complaining that the weather was stiflingly uncomfortable and he echoed the same sentiments for the first few days after their arrival. As much as he was truly happy to be back, I reckon he is more appreciative now of the seasonal changes in Chicago.
In a temperate region like some parts of the US, the seasons are marked by changes in the amount of sunlight which may cause animals to go into hibernation or to migrate, and plants to be dormant. Four seasons are generally recognized: spring, summer, autumn, winter. Needless to say, spring and autumn are my favorites. The winter blues are such a drag, as most people would agree. The summer days can be such scorchers at times that it can cause people to pass out or dehydrate.
In comparison, a tropical region like the Philippines has only the rainy (or wet, or monsoon) season versus the dry season, because the amount of precipitation may vary more dramatically than the average temperature. Back then, it never occurred to me to check on the daily weather forecast or temperature before heading out. Rain or shine, all I needed was my trusty umbrella.
Now that April is giving way to May, I’m starting to put away most of my winter gear but kept some items to tide me over some cooler and rainy days. Admittedly, I loath packing away my Uggs and I’m contemplating on keeping a couple of pairs of boots around, just in case. It might be facetious of me but I do have a bit of a fixation on this type of footwear. If I can afford it, I might already have a closetful that could rival Carrie Bradshaw’s penchant for Manolo Blahniks and Jimmy Choos.
What could have triggered this kind of a fetish? It must had been when I was a young girl and I laid eyes on an image in a magazine of a young woman wearing a pair of chestnut-colored western (cowboy/girl) boots. It looked so cute and hip and I remember wanting a pair so bad.
Those type of footwear were obviously hard to come by at that time, unless you count the white go-go boots that the school band "majorettes" wore during parades. I was so painfully inhibited and vulnerable about my rotund and blemished limbs that I would be the last person you’ll see in public, wearing a short skirt while happily twirling a baton.
Therefore, it was not such a big surprise that I went totally gaga over my first pair of winter boots. I couldn’t wait for the first drop of snow so I could put them on. I strutted around in them like a delusional runway model. It wasn’t just me though. My roommates were as enthusiastic to break in their brand new heavy coats, knitted hats and scarves, gloves and boots. Of course, we had a lot of pictures taken seemingly enjoying the cold weather while holding up a handful of snow like it’s the most precious thing we’ve ever seen. I’m guessing almost all winter neophytes have comparable images in their albums as well. I’ve certainly perused similar photos in some Friendster profiles. It’s just one of those universal experiences we share as immigrants, I suppose.
A few weeks more and I really have to send my beloved boots to storage. I will probably mark that day by treating myself to a nice pedicure. God knows what my feet went through for the past few months. Thank goodness there are no photos of them in the Internet. That’s the one image we need not share… ever.
your blog is really such an entertainment…godspeed!
Hi, Rose!
I got inspired by this post, my dear. Honestly, I have never tried to wear boots. I really want to have those with tempting variety of heels and the very popular Uggs, but I feel that they give me this tottering appearance (and I just really don’t know how to wear them..hi-hi-hi..) whenever I try them on. And one more thing, I am so not a winter person. I really hate going out on snowy days. I love the first warm spring day and the gradual cooling that happens until winter hits.
Guess it’s time to get stepping and not to be afraid to step in the direction of a wild pair when I do. I will oblige myself to get a pair this year
Ummm…a pair of Manolo Blahniks or Jimmy Choos are investments that will last a lifetime…a three figure amount from Michael Kors sounds okay,but dear, a four figure amount sounds outlandish to spend on pairs of shoes (I wish to own a pair, though..lol..).
Well then, my friend…your endless fond of sharing nice posts…and not to forget that wry sense of humor of yours…always make an unforgettable impression. Thanks for sharing this…can’t wait for the next one!
…hugs and smiles attached from your friend here in Korea…
Hey ! friend come….Stupid funny..has ha !!
Hi! I glad to make fiend with you!
Nice website. I like to be friends. Feel free to hear my tunes, & stuff.
Terry
http://fieryphoenix.us
hello rose! matagal mo na akong tagahanga. la pa akong sariling computer noong una ko mabisita ang blog mo. inirekomend ko ito sa isa kong nurse na friend na dyan nagwork sa chicago. ofw ako dito sa riyadh, ksa. enjoy ako sa mpagbabasa ng sinusulat mo. first time ko ito magpost ng comment, nagkalakas ako ng loob para maipaabot ang suporta ko sayo at pasasalamat… good luck and more power!!!
Hi rose, i like your blog sana damihan mo pa yun medyo unique ha… im jojo
nice blog…someday i want also to have a pair of boots…even only one…but for now i have to see them only in magazines and at the stores…
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Great
great, rosemarie
nice blog rosemarie…keep up the good work………
i wanna marry you…
tae
Reading is learning, but no matter how many times I will read your post, my feeling, my knowledge is so limited. Meaning I have to read more so I couldimprove my own writing. Im so glad to know you way back in Gingoog and Im so proud to tell everyone to read your post. I hope those people i encounter is like me who love every details in your blogpost.
You are so inspiring….
Reading is learning, but no matter how many times I will read your post, my feeling, my knowledge is so limited. Meaning I have to read more so I couldimprove my own writing. Im so glad to know you way back in Gingoog and Im so proud to tell everyone to read your post. I hope those people i encounter is like me who love every details in your blogpost.
You are so inspiring….
Reading is learning, but no matter how many times I will read your post, my feeling, my knowledge is so limited. Meaning I have to read more so I couldimprove my own writing. Im so glad to know you way back in Gingoog and Im so proud to tell everyone to read your post. I hope those people i encounter is like me who love every details in your blogpost.
You are so inspiring….
Reading is learning, but no matter how many times I will read your post, my feeling, my knowledge is so limited. Meaning I have to read more so I couldimprove my own writing. Im so glad to know you way back in Gingoog and Im so proud to tell everyone to read your post. I hope those people i encounter is like me who love every details in your blogpost.
You are so inspiring….