Thursday, December 3, 2009

(Reverse) Seasonal Disaffected Disorder

I think I have reverse Seasonal Affected Disorder. The weather here has been unseasonably clear and sunny which- especially as someone who spends a lot of time playing outside regardless of the weather- should make me really happy. However, I find myself getting angry about it sometimes. Like when...

... the low-angle sun is shining in my eyes all the time, constantly half-blinding me when I'm on my bike or driving...

... I see how warm it has been, and how little precipitation we've had, because I know that means it will be a bad snow year...

... I feel like vegging out and watching a movie or reading, but then I look outside and it's sunny and clear, making me feel guilty for not being out there...

... People constantly ask me, "Aren't you cold?" because I'm not bundled up as much as they are. I always wonder, "Aren't you burning up in that? Bundled up like you're going on an arctic expedition?" But I know it's none of my business, so I keep my mouth shut...

... The heat in my office is on so high that it feels like a sauna (and restaurants, pubs, stores, etc. doing the same thing)...

And others. I grew up in Alaska and I am from Northern European stock, so maybe Oregon weather is just too nice for me. But it's funny to listen to coworkers and friends complaining that the weather is too "yucky" and how it's depressing them. Because I'm thinking, "Seriously? It's been sunny, dry, and in the high 40s low 50s for weeks. And it's freakin' DECEMBER for Christ's sake! Can we PLEASE have some freakin' WINTER around here finally?" I would be really happy with some really cold, dark days. The kind where it's the best thing in the world to get all cozy by the fire with some hot chocolate or bourbon (or both, in the same cup...) and read a good book.

But it is Oregon so- though it will never be like Alaska- I'm sure I'll get my wish soon enough.

2 comments:

Laufenem said...

I thought I was the only one!

Captain Hairdo said...

Wait, I thought I was the only one! We should start a club!


Sunrise over Little Tohama, from Ingraham Flats, 2007