Written by: Mikayla Coleman
Say goodbye to the endless gloomy, gray days of Oregon winter— the weeks ahead call for warm sunshine and warm hearts. Use the recommendations listed below to construct one’s perfect sunny day.
Have a picnic with friends — Picnics should be a more widely accepted adult activity. Nothing beats sitting on a nice hill and spending time with some friends. Simply pack one’s favorite snacks, beverages, paper plates and disposable utensils to get one’s picnic started. Going with a number of friends? Assign responsibilities and collaborate in making a charcuterie board with an assortment of different fruits, cheeses, jams and nuts.
Play an outdoor sport — Whether one is looking to go to an outdoor court or looking for less competitive physical activities, Western has many options to choose from when it comes to playing outdoor sports. My personal favorite outdoor sport is Badminton, but there are courts specifically for tennis and basketball courts for students and community members to use on Western’s campus. If one is looking for a more casual activity, one can bring a volleyball or soccer ball out to Western’s recreational areas and fields to toss around with a friend.
Visit restaurants and bars with outdoor seating — There are some great places to get drinks and grub in the Monmouth-Independence area. Drytown Tap Station is notoriously known for its great outdoor seating and variety of food trucks nearby. They also participate in WOU Wednesday and give students different rotating discounts on various drinks and food. Another wonderful spot to consider is Mangiare Italian Restaurant. With great patio outdoor seating, excellent pasta, complimentary bread and cocktails to die for, when the sun comes out, visiting Mangiare is a must.
Relax by the river — The sound of rushing water is soothing. Luckily, we are very close to Independence’s riverfront park. Take the MI Trolley to the riverfront to relax and rewind after heavy study days. Spread out a blanket and bring one’s favorite pair of headphones or a portable speaker to listen to one’s favorite music. One can also bring a book, journal, planner or craft to work on while soaking up the rays.
Visit an outdoor market — One of the best things about the warm weather returning is the return of outdoor markers. Whether one needs fresh fruits or veggies, a beautiful bundle of flowers or some handmade jewelry, outdoor markets got it covered. Independence has a small farmers market that runs April through October. Located in the Independence Umpqua Bank parking lot, one can visit the market on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. If one is looking for a more elaborate market with a wider variety of vendors, Salem Saturday Market is located in downtown Salem from March through October. The market is also open on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu
