Whenever people think of Florida the first thought that comes to mind is sun. But for those of us who actually live here we understand that while there are those beautiful sunny days there is also a whole lot of rain, thunderstorms, and hurricanes. It can happen out of nowhere. You’re walking to class, not a cloud in sight, then when class lets out you walk into Poseidon’s fury. When this happens you realize that one-you have no umbrella and are in shorts and sandals, and two- your entire’s day plans are disrupted. Now you see yourself running like a maniac, passing all the students who have umbrellas-a wave of envy hits you, and when you go home and turn on the television the same weatherman who, this morning, said today will be sunny will a very slight chance of rain is now discussing the thunderstorms and the importance of staying indoors. Well, I’m here to help you with these days. Here is some advice on what to wear, and what to do, when you are blessed with blue skies, and cursed with those cloudy days.
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Sunny Days
While most people would suggest going to the beach, try something a little different. A few years back I went to Ponce de Leon springs. Here they have a sugar mill and at each table there is a small stove where you can cook your own pancakes and they bring you a variety of toppings to mix with the batter. Then, once you finish breakfast or lunch you walk right outside and there are the springs. You can swim, tube, or just lay out as many of us girls do. As for what to wear, you should stick with those shorts, sandals, and tank, but add something different to switch it up. Lately, I’ve been noticing that those adorable tight fitting hats are starting to come back, which ties the outfit in together.
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If you aren’t wanting to take the drive to the springs then just get in your car and take a 20 minute drive to Winter Park. Here you can walk the cobblestone streets and go into the unique shops and restaurants. A few weeks back my mom and I went to see Wicked (amazing!) but beforehand we had dinner at this place called White Wolf. It’s this vintage café that has mismatched chandeliers hung from the ceiling, artwork on the walls, and has an overall Bohemian atmosphere. Their most unique dish, and my favorite, was the lobster Mac-n-cheese, who would have thought these completely different dishes would work so perfectly together? And, on certain times and days, they have live performances while you eat! Then right next door there are antique shops and an art studio called Boom art. The artist, Glenn Rodgers, specializes in pop art, and he makes affordable artwork for anyone. All of his artwork is individually custom and hand painted and his clients include many celebrities. I bought a clock for $10 that had printed Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and I have to say its one of my most unique possessions in my dorm. You can easily fill the day exploring and shopping, what else can a girl ask for?
Stormy Weather
 As much as we hate these days, they happen. When they do the first thing you should always do is check your email and see if your professor canceled class. You don’t want to make the drive if you don’t have to. If your class isn’t canceled then its time to go through your closet and try to find something that will keep you somewhat dry-and of course your umbrella. While I know that my fellow staff writer swears off rain boots, they are effective. Honestly what other option is there? Sandals would just get your feet wet and cold and most boots are made from cloth so they would be ruined, not to mention the water would seep through the boots and onto your socks. You see the problem. And if you are one of the lucky few whose class is canceled then you might as well do something.
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While this isn’t the most original idea, seeing a movie will always pass the time. And who knows maybe when it’s finished the weather will have clear skies again. If this day happens to fall on a Tuesday then you’re in luck. Every Tuesday Regal Cinema at Oviedo mall has $5 movie tickets. Usually the tickets are $8.50 so you can see the difference and there’s also $1 popcorn!
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And you know all that homework that you’ve been putting off all week? Well now’s the time to get it done. Sitting in your room, listening to Pandora, with the dark skies outside, create the perfect studying atmosphere. You’ll be surprised by how much you can get done on these days. And its true that college students never get the chance to watch their favorite shows live anymore so maybe now’s the time to catch up on all you’ve missed. You don’t always have to be in the college frenzy of constantly doing something, sometimes its nice to just do nothing.