Making the most of a blustery day

When the wind is freezing and the weather unpredictable, I remind myself why I'm lucky to live in New England. While I'm tempted to bundle up and stay indoors with a snuggly afghan and cup of tea, it's more fun to witness a storm tearing up the Atlantic coast.

These pictures were taken on a particularly wintry day last week. Don't let my spring attire fool you: it was cold enough to wear a parka, and yet there were surfers defying the icy blast and riding the waves. In my thin floral skirt and ballet flats, I decided to be a little daring, too, but the best I could do was pick up my camera and watch.

I think this look was inspired by my Irish heritage. I can picture a fairskinned ancestor of mine sitting seaside in a chunky Aran sweater and floral-patterned dress, letting her wavy hair swirl in the misty breeze, perhaps dreaming of what lay beyond the Gaelic coast.

She probably skipped the sunglasses, though. And maybe she would've lasted outdoors a little longer than me. After just a few chilly moments, I scurried back home. Good thing my outfit photographed even better indoors:

Top: Derek Hearts (purchased somewhere in New Jersey)

Skirt: Thrifted
Tights: Target
Flats: Old Navy
Sweater (previous photo): Candie's (Kohl's)

And the best part about living in New England? When the weather turns warmer, I can return to the very same spot on the beach, hopefully to enjoy a less chilling breeze. During those moments where I wish I could be somewhere else, I think of how the sea will always be there; and, luckily for me, it's practically my backyard.