Michelle Grossman, Weathercaster

I just got back from a vacation in the Bahamas last week; my very first visit to the lovely island. Below is a photo from the trip.

First thought when you look at the picture is... paradise, right? The way the palm tree branches are actually horizontal from the wind driven rains??? Ok, so I'm sounding a little facetious and maybe I mean it, in that way, a teensy-bit. But, the truth is, the washout of a day was actually welcomed.

In the past, a day like this would have had me nervous. The trip was only four days long, to begin with, and losing an entire day would have put a serious dent in my sunbathing schedule -- the real reason you go away before summer, right? But nowadays, a rain day is an excuse to kick back and catch up on the latest reading, tv, etc. - - guilt free. Besides, being a weathercaster, I felt good for the Bahamian people. They are in need of some soaking rains; a fact that was confirmed time and time again by the taxi drivers.

Anyway, the washout required me to rethink how the day's events would unfold. Instead of the obligatory sightseeing, beach activites or local downtown stroll, I was free to do absolutely, positively NOTHING.

So, what did I do? Well, I read a book. One of those trashy, guilty pleasure type novels. The typical summer read. It takes place in a uppity beach town. Twenty-something boy meets twenty-something girl on summer vacation - boy and girl fall in love - - young girl breaks young boy's heart. I was not happy with this ending because I was really rooting for the guy. His ex-girlfriend, a.k.a. first love, had just ended their two year relationship before the start of summer break. He learned to love again only to be betrayed again by his summer crush. Sad.

After I finished the book, my day got more interesting. I played some pool (not the interesting part) and lost miserably. Then I spotted a checkers board across the rec room. I honestly don't know the last time I sat down and played a game of checkers. I must have been ten years old. This fact was made clear when it became hugely apparent that the game was lasting way too long, due to the lack of any strategy from myself and my opponent. Then I ended the day with a nice long nap.

All-in-all it was a very cathartic day; almost child-like. I may even incorporate some checkers playing or old school board games into my free time more often. Let me know what you do on your rainy days!