Cold

It's cold. It's cold every day. Perhaps it's partly because I'm alone now and there's one less heat source, but the cold really seeps into my bones. To make matters worse, my room faces northwest, so I never see the morning sun. My new job is to move my cyclamen pot to the only small window that gets morning light as soon as I wake up.
The sash windows fit tightly, so there are no drafts, but it's chillingly cold near the windows. Apparently, 50% of heat escapes through windows during the winter. I've heard that aluminum sashes are the material that conducts heat and cold the most easily. I've heard that wooden or resin sashes are better, but it's too late for that now.

I decided to start by securing the perimeter, so I replaced the curtains that were only window-length with ones that reach the floor. I took the curtains off one window and sewed them onto the hem of the curtains from another. For the window that was left bare, I looked for an insulated curtain that reached the floor. I found an outlet item that was cheap but thick and heavy, though it was 2cm too short. I wasn't going to let that stop me. I unpicked the hem and adjusted the length so it reached the floor perfectly.

Every time I see the 'Usage Notice,' I'm shocked by the rising electricity and gas bills. I found out that a certain gas company is running an energy-saving campaign, so I immediately registered as a member and have been saving electricity during designated times to earn points, since I pay for both my electricity and gas through this company. On days when I'm home, I turn off the electricity when the designated time arrives via email. That includes the air conditioner and floor heating, of course, as well as the ceramic heater. I endure the cold with sheer willpower... no, I get by by dressing warmly. My padded hanten jacket is a huge help.
I don't use the microwave or the electric kettle at all, as anything that uses heat consumes the most electricity. At this point, enduring it has become like a game. It's something I can only do because it's usually limited to the morning hours.

Perhaps thanks to the long curtains, it's warm at night with just the floor heating. When I get into bed, it's
like a nice, warm kotatsu. I can even use my smartphone or watch recorded movies right there.
I've saved up quite a few points. Now, shall I buy some sake and heat myself from the inside out?

What kind of energy-saving measures are you all taking?

　　　　　　　　　　　　The End