Photo courtesy of sxc

If the torrential downpours hitting Columbia recently have  put a damper on your past couple of days, and your finding it hard to get motivated to start your week, you aren’t alone. Here are five things to motivate you, or just help occupy your time until the storm passes.

1. Jump in puddles because the roads in Columbia create puddles with the perfect depth for making a splash.
2. Go for an indoor run. If you’re feeling active on a rainy day, take advantage of the indoor track at Mizzou Rec. There will probably be fewer people there than there normally are.
3. Go to the mall and read magazines or books for free. There’s just something about getting away from the rest of the world for a while, and reading new books and magazines without paying for them.
4. Go to 9^th Street Video and rent an old movie. Black and white movies to match the black and white scene outside. Pick up a pint of Ben and Jerry’s to make the movie that much better.
5. Cook something new. Turn on The Food Network or look up some creative recipes on Pinterest. Play old-school “Shake Rattle and Roll” and make a mess in the kitchen, which will be a sure sign of a delicious meal.