Healthy Chicks

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Gew. I know yesterday I complained about the cold, but the only thing I dislike more than being cold (I swear I’m always cold) is rainy and cold ’cause now not only do I have goosebumps, but I’m wet, frigid and look like a drowned rat. I’d rather it be snowing; then at least there’s something pretty to look at and you can catch the tiny snowflakes on the tip of your tongue. But it looks like we’re stuck with the rain for the next few days. I have to admit: normally I become ultra lazy on rainy days, and have one of those not-so-productive days. It’s something about the dreary weather that makes me want to cuddle up with hot tea and do absolutely nothing. Also, my mind seems to wander more on rainy days…to unproductive, irrelevant places, once again contributing to my theory: Rainy days make me a lazy lady. 

BUT, and that’s a big but, today was different! I decided to not let a little wetness outside ruin all the fun…along with a whole day’s worth of productivity. And neither should you! I challenge you to make this rainy day a non-lazy day…take it by storm and make it a day of getting things done! 

Some Ideas: 

1. Go Out to Lunch: I know it sounds silly because it’s  monsooning outside, but getting out for a bit will actually give you a new perspective. If you usually dine in the office, grab a coworker and head out to a local cafe for some cozy eats. How does a nice hot bowl of homemade soup or a gourmet tuna melt sound? Yea, that’s what I thought. I sported my rain boots and jacket to hike a couple blocks for some sushi with a good friend. Not only did we enjoy the fabulous lunch special that included miso soup and hot tea, but we also got away from our lives for a while to catch up and re-group. Now I’m ready to get back to work again with lots of energy and a full tummy!

2. Clean out the Closet: It’s about time you clean out that closet of yours, and rainy days are the perfect time to start! My favorite method? Take everything out of the closet…yes everything. While your room may look like one big hot mess for a while, it’s worth it in the long run. When you see everything in front of you, it’s easy to decipher what needs to go (last year’s magazines and that pile of lint), what needs to be stored away (that spaghetti-strap summer dress), and what needs to shine front and center (hellooo pretty winter boots, I’ve missed you). Put some tunes on and have fun with the cleaning process. You’ll feel tremendous once it’s done, and you can give your non-lazy self a nice big pat on the back when you’re through.

3. Get Crafty: One of my best friends phoned me yesterday to tell me she finally finished knitting a scarf she’s giving her sister for Christmas. First I thought, I’m impressed. Second, Christmas gifts already? Then I thought about it, and it’s definitely a good idea to get the holiday shopping started; it’s going to come just as quickly as bikini season turned into pumpkin lattes. So why not give a gift of love this year, something homemade you crafted yourself? Here are some ideas to get you started but I challenge you to be creative and unique in whatever you do! In high school, I used to make all of my friends handmade corn bags, which were always a big hit. Now there’s a start…There’s nothing lazy about getting crafty on a rainy day. 

4. Make an Extravagant Dinner: I know it’s tempting to call it a night and order pizza and Chinese Food when the weather gets rough. But I urge you to not do that. Wouldn’t you rather save money and eat something wholesome, yummy ‘n’ nutritious? Whip out that apron and get cookin’ lady! Surprise your roommates or your man with a big 3-course meal, and have fun with it. Craving pasta? Why not start with a fresh salad with arugula, pear, sweet onion and olive oil or some homemade garlic bread on multigrain toast? Move onto the main dish with a Light and Healthy Summer Pasta (hey, who said we couldn’t keep summer a little longer?) or Fresh Mozzarella & Pesto Pasta. Finish off with a tasty dessert, like some homemade pumpkin chocolate chip muffins or simply mini sponge cakes topped with fresh fruit ‘n’ cool whip. Use your brains and your taste buds to make something phenomenal!

What do you do on a rainy day to keep from being a lazy lady?