In an effort to break the silence of not blogging for quite some time, I decided to stick with a simple topic specific to the day: rain.

It’s a brisk and chilly Saturday – one that feels misty and slightly melancholy that requires warmth from a good sweater and some good company. The kind of day that feels brightened with some rainy day tunes, a few favorite movies, or a good read. In the spirit of the mid-fall mist and the reflection that such a day brings, I’ve compiled a simple list of rainy day activities meant to inspire indoor or outdoor adventures of your own.

clouds

1. Place a phone call – Preferably to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while. Something about a gloomy day makes the heart crave the warmth of a familiar voice. Be it a friend currently living in another city, a relative in another country, or even a neighbor just down the street, a phone call is a comforting way to learn and share news while gazing out your window at the silent drops falling.

2. Begin a new project – Pick up that knitting project you started months ago, work on a new watercolor, or record a new song from the melody that’s been dancing in your head for weeks. Even if you’re shy about the results, the majority of the fun lies in the act (or art) of creating.

3. Spin a record – Search through your collection for something you haven’t listened to in a while. Or, pick music that either matches the weather outside or something that goes against it entirely. Dance and shake off your rainy day blues or listen contemplatively and rest with your quiet thoughts.

4. Take a hike – Pack your rain gear and pay a visit to your closest park or hiking trails. Let your senses feast on the scenery and breathe in the rain’s clean scent. Afterward, curl up with a warm blanket and something hot to drink.

5. Kick back – Use the weather as an excuse to spend some time re-energizing yourself. Do what calms you and brings you peace. Too often we get catch up in the daily hustle and bustle – use a rainy day to sit still for some time. If you have a covered porch, even better – relax in a comfy chair and listen to the rain fall softly around you. You can tackle that to-do list later.