Here we are again, officially in the thick of winter quarter. And if you’re like me, you have PTSD from the torrential downpour rain storms from last year.
Last year I was so excited for the winter quarter. I was all settled in my new house on Del Playa, my friends had just gotten back from being abroad — it was going to be awesome.
After we all returned, it immediately started raining and did not stop. I remember coming back from class on the first day of school, wringing out my clothes at the door, only soon to find out that school the next day had been canceled because the rain was really that bad.
As soon as that storm ended, another one started, and it continued throughout the entire quarter. This stormy season left me and my housemates sitting on the couch every day dreading going outside. Now looking back a year later, was a massive bummer and waste of time.
Now as we enter back into another forecasted rainy winter quarter, I am determined to make this one different and not waste any days here in Isla Vista, even the rainy ones.
To combat feeling trapped while it rains, here are some ways to make the most of a rainy day in Isla Vista.
Kitchen Cook-Off or Bake-Off
As for staying inside activities, personally, this is one of my favorites. Gather your friends or your housemates and everyone makes a dish or dessert of their choice. This is a great way to stay busy while still spending time with those you love. The best part is that since the rain makes staying inside extra cozy, sitting on the couch with your friends is extra special because you all made something to share, elevating the couch hang.
Picnic Family Dinners
Similar to the cook-off, a potluck-style family dinner is an adorable and memorable activity to do with friends. Set down some blankets, light some candles, and now you have the cutest, moody and cozy dinner ever! This is perfect for aesthetic pics of your food, perfect for a memorable night with your friends. I’m dying to do this one day.
Surf in the Streets
While this activity won’t keep you wet and cozy, you’ll have an awesome lifelong memory. Get your boogie boards and take them to the streets or take them down to the sand. Even though there won’t be waves to actually surf, hop on and take a ride. While the roads and sand are slick, they make a perfect slope to glide on. As silly as it sounds, I’ve done it, and I had the time of my life — I highly recommend it.
While these activities may not encapsulate the special magic of UCSB, I am a firm believer in not letting a day go to waste. Especially as a senior, my days are numbered. So, while these activities are not my first choice on a perfect sunny day, they are the perfect way to cherish time with the people you live with and the people you love.
With only 6 months left at UCSB, I know that I will look back on all of my time spent here and remember the people and I will remember the place. I don’t want to waste a single day because I want to have as many memories as possible. Sunny memories, windy memories, even rainy memories — because even when the weather is funky and wet, every day can be a perfect day in Isla Vista if you make it.
And I intend to.