Script:

Today I’m sharing a few winter essentials I use when I’m filming quick outdoor clips.

I never really took videos on my phone until late last year, when hiking vids became an on‑the‑go outdoor journal for me.

This past weekend was one of the coldest of the season in the Northeast U.S.

In my part of Maine, it was around ten to twenty‑four degrees Fahrenheit (that’s about minus twelve to minus three Celsius) and the “feels like” temperature was even lower.

I went out to the backyard on Saturday for a few quick shots, and it was fine because the wind wasn’t too bad.

But the real arctic blast probably came in that night.

Anyway, here’s what I do. I keep my phone in my pocket between clips to keep it warm, and I’ve gotten very fast at the gloves‑on, gloves‑off sequence.

For lips, I use a Japanese Rohto Mentholatum balm with SPF, and I also like the Nivea Asian or Japanese versions because they have SPF too.

For my face, I use a Japanese sunscreen (the Skin Aqua blue bottle) which doubles as my moisturizer since I have oily, very sensitive skin. I use CeraVe elsewhere, especially on my hands because I’m eczema‑prone.

I also plan where I want to go and what I want to record.

Last week I took a short drive to a wildlife refuge, and it was really fun.

I might go back for a tiny winter walk. The marsh looked completely different compared to autumn.

And of course: don’t try to do too much!!!

Stop if you’re uncomfortable.

Dress in layers. I need at least three to feel warm:

• a thin long‑sleeve base
• a hoodie or sweatshirt, and
• a puffy winter jacket for the sub‑zero days

Plus insulated beanie, Uniqlo Heattech pants, gloves, and good boots.

And when you’re done, go back inside and warm up. 🍵

That’s today’s reflection, about some tiny winter rituals that make outdoor filming more doable.

BONUS — For winter dragon pics, see: