This post is strictly related to the previous one. But I would add “in the snow” to the title.
Toronto forecasts originally predicted between 20 and 30 cm of snow Tuesday night through to Wednesday afternoon but when I awoke this morning I expected to see more snow. It was “only” 15-20 cm. Yesterday the Opp (Ontario Provincial Police) told drivers to avoid non-essential travels and take the bus/subway/train instead. The city’s two major school boards canceled all classes for the first time in 12 years. Some offices were closed. The stores were empty. Hundreds of flights have been canceled at the Pearson International Airport.
Well, guys, it wasn’t a “real” snowstorm. It was just a “snow big deal“. I didn’t want to take any risk though. I prepared for my trip after I decided to leave my car at home. In Canada dressing for the cold weather is essential, believe me. Usually, as you start walking, your circulation should warm you up but this never happens here. When it’s very cold (-30) your legs start hurting and your circulation gets blocked and make sure you wear good water-proof boots. The Canadian government suggests on its website to wear multiple, thin layers of loose-fitting clothing to trap body heat and promote air circulation. Outer clothing should be tightly woven, hooded and water-repellant.
Pay particular attention to the wind chill index that makes the weather conditions even worse.
Moreover you should avoid handbags… You need to keep your hands and arms free when you fall…
Anyway, this morning I took the subway and then the bus and then I walked on the second longest street in the world (the first one is Yonge Street), Wingold Avenue. Just kidding. It only takes about 10 minutes to reach the end of Wingold Avenue but it seems so long when it’s windy (always), snowy and the temperature is -30… It was like in the “good” old days when I didn’t have a car. It was funny.
I didn’t want to listen to my iPod. The silence of the snow made the atmosphere surreal. It made me so relaxed and I felt so happy. Walking in snowy conditions is so invigorating! And did you know that you can burn more calories than walking in good weather conditions? Winter is not so bad after all.
I found some winter activities that can burn a lot of calories. You can enjoy the snow, get some fresh air and get fit.
1) Downhill skiing: 535 calories an hour.
2) Shoveling snow: 400 calories an hour. It’s a necessary evil anyway otherwise you could get a fine of $125 from the City of Toronto.
Pasta ♥ Me La Simo in cucina 
I read that, over the difficulty of the snow, your body needs also to warm up against the cold and then burns more calories in cold conditions. Also living in a home just moderately heated would help burn calories;-)
I totally agree with all your statements! There is nothing more rewarding and healthier than a brisk walk in the fresh snow! Too bad you live downtown and far, else we could have some fun for sure!
I know Donata! Hope to see you soon somehow! 🙂 Tx for dropping by 🙂