I guess it's really a matter of what you're used to, but 32F in New England in January is a cake walk: light jacket, light gloves, wool hat, no special protection otherwise. It's not until you get into the low 20s that you need heavier gloves and foot protection.

Personal coldest this year is 18F last week. Patagonia Das Boots on the feets, Giro lobster claws on the mitts, thermal base layer under the chinos, wool jacket, windproof shell, Columbia Omni Heat gaiter = good to go. For $6, the Columbia Omni Heat gaiter was the single best investment I ever made in staying warm in the cold weather, btw.

I did live the first 23 years of my life in California, though, so I do feel your pain, even if it's through the laughing. Your description sounds like you way overdid it.