rain, rain, go away

It's always miserable when you wake up and can immediately tell that it's dark outside despite the fact that you slept in until 10 am. And to add insult to injury, you walk over to the window to see umbrella-covered people trudging along the sidewalks. Here are some ideas to combat those dark and gloomy days where you just don't want to leave the comfort of your own home:

1. Cook a meal that is extra generous on the cheese...
There is just something comforting about cheese. Especially warm cheese. To me, it even beats chocolate in the rainy-day food category.

the best cheesy garlic bread your mouth will ever taste

meatball sub on crispy parmesan-oregano bread with caramelized onions, garlic tomato sauce, and heaps of mozzarella

2. Have your rainy-day playlist ready.

Playing peppy or top 40 music on rainy days is completely obnoxious and unwelcome. Nobody wants to hear Britney Spears' latest club track or upbeat Beach Boys tunes that just increase your resentment for the weather. An ugly day deserves its own playlist of introspective tunes that make you itch for a cup of scorching tea and have you reaching for your fleece blanket. Some of my soggy weather faves:
1. A Case of You- Joni Mitchell
2. Down by the Water- The Drums

3. Dayvan Cowboy- Boards of Canada

4. Twice- Little Dragon

5. Dinosaur Act- Low

6. Tonight- Lykke Li

7. Sweets- M.Craft

8. Quiet- Rachael Yamagata

3. Arts & Crafts

Take a break from studying and do something relaxing and creative. You can start small, such as making a friendship bracelet (which is what I did) or if you're the adventurous type, paint a wall in your apartment a fresh new colour (make sure to get your roommates' approval)!!