The weather today is what I would expect from the last week in March — it always seems to be a little colder, darker and damper than it should at this time of year (it feels closer to late fall than early spring) but I am consoling myself with the fact that by mid-April we will be bathed in sunshine and likely complaining about the humidity!

But that is for another day. This afternoon I wanted to share a few suggestions for the afternoon/ evening — this is my take on what you can do to lift your mood on such a glum day.  Here is my top 3 — feel free to share your thoughts below.

1. Go to a nice happy hour with your friends, colleagues or family. There are lots of fun options available that should warm the spirit ranging from Cafe Deluxe (well priced wine, beer and margaritas at the bar along with some terrific food specials including a lovely Tilapia sandwich and fries for about $4) to Mon Ami Gabi (yes the red wine is super and well priced for their happy hour and the salmon burger is fab) to Redwood (always a good time with quality food and drink specials).

2. An inexpensive dinner that includes some warming soup or a splash of summer. In the first category there are toasty options ranging from Raku (if you fancy some Asian cuisine) to Cosi or La Madelines (inexpensive and just right for a damp evening) to Penang (try their starter soup with roti!). In the second, if you feel the need to act as if summer is here I’d suggest considering a visit to Jaleo (have some tortilla soup and perhaps a sangria) to Uncle Julios (ceviche and margaritas) to Ben and Jerry’s (especially if you missed free cone day!).

3. Head to Barnes and Nobles this evening — spend the evening with your neighbors and indulge in something tasty from the cafe while you check out the latest books on offer.

So — do any of these work for you? Have any alternatives to share?