I’ve been talked into going skiing in two weeks, something I haven’t done in ten years. I’m really looking forward to it. I just spoke to my boss, who is away skiing this week, and he tells me the conditions are really great. I checked the resort’s website and they’re reporting 1.20m of snow coverage, with more snow expected in the next few days.

One small glitch. Since I haven’t been skiing in ten years, I haven’t got any clothing or equipment. It’s not really worth spending a fortune, because I’m not sure how much more use I’ll get out of it. Silly to spend several hundred pounds on new kit only to wear it once, right?

No problem, I think. E-bay will provide a bargain. And it did — of sorts. I managed to pick up a parka, salopettes, and gloves for £15 (that’s about $25 for you Americans following along). It’s good-quality stuff, warm and in good condition, and the jacket even has built-in avalanche rescue device. Quality stuff.

It’s just the colour. You know what they say about a picture being worth a thousand words? Well here, have three thousand:

(Yes, okay, this photograph was taken in my bathroom. Sorry, but it’s the biggest mirror I have in the house!)

Aude helpfully pointed out that “at least she wouldn’t lose me on the slopes.“

And I’ve got a sense of humour to match the best of them. I don’t mind looking like a tit. At least everyone will be watching as I wipe out.