Tired of the Cold, Rainy Weather? Here's Five Ideas to Brighten Up Your Weekend

By Cassie McCully

Though the first day of Spring--March 20th, is just around the corner,
consistent sunshine is a ways off for those of us living in the northwest.

Here's 5 ideas to brighten up your weekend:

1. Get out of the house.

It may not be sunny, but there are plenty of activities that will have you focusing on things other than the weather.  Visit the bookstore, take a walk or a hike, meet a friend for lunch or dress up in green and cheer on the 32,000 people participating in the annual Shamrock Run, benefiting the Doernbecher Children's Hospital, this Sunday, along the waterfront in Portland, Oregon.  The Vancouver Farmers Market opens this weekend, as well. 

2. Drink (Sassy) Water. 

Sassy Water is a refreshing combination of water, lemons, cucumber, spearmint and ginger.

It's kind to your metabolism and a pleasure to drink!  Here's the recipe. 

3. Exercise.

Give your body an endorphin rush.

Even twenty minutes of exercise can boost your energy and mood, help decrease stress, ease depression, and make a positive impact on body image.

4.  Play games.

Games such as Scrabble, Yahtzee, and Solitaire are fun, cheap entertainment.  Scrabble, specifically, is a great way to increase language skills and exercise your mind muscles for long-term memory and retention.  Plus, a little competitiveness always livens things up, no?  I guess it could be for better or worse, depending on who you're playing with. 

5.  Cook or bake something new.

Oatmeal-Raisin Breakfast Cookies

Maybe it'll be Corned Beef and Cabbage for the holiday weekend, or Energy Bites for the upcoming work-week?  Maybe you'll make some healthy cookies.  Yes, I said it--healthy. cookies.  Trying something new in the kitchen is a great way to change up the mundane and brighten the weekend!

So, what are you going to do?

P.S. Don't forget the upcoming Lunch N' Learn on Tuesday 3/20 at 12pm:

"Put Down the Diet and Step Away"

by Dr. Marc.

Make sure and get signed up before Tuesday to receive free lunch!

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