Even during the summer time, when mosquitoes are searching for exposed skin, a mosquito-coil on the bench right beside me will keep danger at large.
But today, at minus 20 degrees Celsius with blowing wind, it feels as draughty in that little place as it does in the bird feeder. Beautiful big ice crystals are covering the walls and the toilet paper, and for a brief moment, I considered an outhouse-free day. Then I remembered that I could write about the experience, and I continued my trip as planned.
The moral of the story is: enjoy and appreciate your luxuries, even or especially if you do not find them luxurious all the time.
Addition:
In the winter, the reading material we keep in the outhouse is for display only – see the snow that has blown in from the side and accumulated behind the magazine.
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Since I live in the Yukon, I can definitely say I am certainly familiar with the outhouse experience. And when -40 hits, and you find yourself running for the outhouse in full winter garb, it'll be an interesting experience as you expose yourself to the frozen elements and try to finish off as quick as you can. Then, one day, in the deep of winter, you may even just look down the hole to see all your rectal memories creeping up on you: my family and I call it a pooh-stalagmite. Whatever you do, do not pour boiling water on it in an attempt to reduce it. You and the next 30' diameter may just end up with a really shitty experience.
ReplyDeleteI suppose the good news is that it wouldn't smell this time of year.
ReplyDeleteStay warm. :~)
I'm cold just THINKING about going out there!
ReplyDeleteWhat a good little reminder! Too often we take the luxury civilization gives us for granted. It's only -10 around here right now (during nights) and -5 during daytime and I don't know if I had the bravery it takes to visit the outhouse at -20!!
ReplyDeleteStay warm! :)
Now that brings back memories! My first child was trained in an outhouse. All we had at the time where I was living. We used a styrofoam life ring with a wedge cut out of it on the seat as it doesn't conduct cold. Actually feels warm within a few seconds of sitting on it!
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comments - Elias and I had fun with them and some good follow-up conversations.
ReplyDeleteKane, that's very true. We use an iron rod to knock it down into the depths of the hole.
Liz, not for long, anyways.
Thanks Pat and Michi :)
Lorac, we use a piece of blue foam from a camping pad, that works just as you describe it.
okay, I think I would be totally constipated.
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