Onix - since your commute is short, reusable hand warmers might be just the trick for your cold fingers. There are these http://www.rei.com/product/608751 , but I think I've seen some that you can throw in the microwave. They tend to be a bit bulky compared to the disposable ones, but if you put them on top of your hands they shouldn't affect your dexterity too much. Also, wear a glove liner, then the warmer, then a glove for safety - no warmer directly on your skin - and maximum effectiveness.

I'm a year round commuter. We also have pretty mild winter weather around here, so I don't have much beside rain and dark to contend with. Only deep snow (when its up to my hubs I just can't go anywhere.... and when we do get snow it tends to be the sticky heavy stuff) and widespread ice will keep me off the streets. My very first commute to my current job was in a monsoon.... kept a lot of people who drove from even getting to work...