Fall in the Pacific Northwest means two possibilities: Either you complain about the damp, wet, cold that permeates every place you go, or you ward yourself in the proper apparel, knock back some apple cider and head outdoors. It’s all about having the right gear.
Last fall I read an article about how Scandinavians embrace cold weather and shortened days. Supposedly, they light a bunch of candles in their uncluttered houses, bake spice cookies, visit with friends and stay cozy because they are wearing wool sweaters.
I’m a quarter Swedish, so I figured this was a mentality I could emulate if I tried hard enough. First I lined the windows with battery-operated pillar candles that turned on each night when it got dark. Next I tossed afghans on every armchair in the house. But the major step I took towards embracing my inner-Scandinavian was purchasing a Norwegian sweater when the Norskware roadshow came to Costco.
The saleswoman explained to me that Norskware sweaters are some of the most marvelous garments in the world. Not only do they keep out the cold, but when cared for properly the sweaters can last for up to 20 years.
Yes, you’re supposed to hand wash them, but she told me they didn’t necessarily need to be washed every year because the natural properties of wool resist stains and odors. I was sold! (Except for the part about not washing them.) I shelled out my money and bought a pretty blue one with pewter buttons.
The fun thing about wearing an extremely expensive, high-performance Scandinavian sweater is that I can crank down the furnace to 62 degrees and still be comfortable. But I don’t do this very often because my children will jack up the thermostat when I’m not looking.
The bad thing about wearing my fancy sweater is that I’m hesitant to cook, clean, or walk the dog while wearing it. That sweater was expensive and I want it to last until I’m 60.
Fleece, flannel and synthetic down are practical alternatives for a busy mom like me. A $15 puffer vest from Old Navy has become my new best friend. Technically I have three new best friends because I bought three vests in different colors.
I look like I’m perpetually ready to rake leaves in the backyard, but that’s OK.
Maybe instead of Americans reading articles about how Scandinavia enjoys winter, Scandinavians should read about how the Pacific Northwest embraces damp weather.
We’d tell them that there is no such thing as too many layers of fleece and that it’s also worth investing in a high quality raincoat. On the coldest days we brew a pot of coffee, turn on some music and watch the snowline creep down the mountains.
Here in Washington we know that falling asleep to the sound of raindrops is something to look forward to, and that a frosty morning is Mother Nature’s way of saying hello.
Jennifer Bardsley is an Edmonds mom of two, and author of the book “Genesis Girl.” Find her online on Instagram @the_ya_gal, Twitter @jennbardsley or at teachingmybabytoread.com.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
