School started up just a few short weeks ago, and in those few weeks Redding has been bombarded with rain. Lots of rain. Now, don't get me wrong, I actually really love the rain, but it means getting creative with the activities you choose for your free time. Here are some fun things you can do when the weather isn't playing nice.

1. Puddle Jump

I mean, the sky is providing you with copious amounts of water, why not throw away your inhibitions and indulge your inner child by jumping in as many puddles as you can? Just be prepared to embrace the drowned rat look afterwards.

2. Reread your favorite book.

Or maybe even try out a new book. Either one is a fun option that allows you to enjoy the rain without being out in it.

3. Break out an old gaming system

As a 90's child, I grew up playing the Nintendo 64. Although the graphics are worse than I remember them being, there is something so fun about embracing the nostalgia of playing some Donkey Kong 64 or beating everyone as Pikachu on Super Smash Bros 64. Along with Mario Kart 64, Diddy Kong Racing, Super Mario 64 and a handful of other classic games, it's hard to go wrong with this option.

4. Play a board game or group game

Maybe it sounds fairly archaic to you, but board games have a way of bringing out the competitive nature of some people. So, ruin friendships and end relationships with some Pictionary or pit the guys against the girls for a few rounds of Fishbowl. You're sure to end the evening with sore abs and tear streaked face from laughing.

5. Go bowling.

That's right! Slip on those goofy shoes, watch those annoying cartoons depicting what you just did and embrace some competition. You won't love it unless you try it.

6. Take goofy pictures.

We live in an era of digital everything, which means not worrying about whether or not you have enough film. So grab a good friend, throw on some fun music and just go for it. Some of the best pictures come out of opportunities like that.

8. Bake cookies.

Don't just use store bought cookie dough, try making them from scratch. It's not as hard as it sounds and the result is heavenly. Plus, then you can share warm cookies and some milk with your friends and if that doesn't sound incredible to you, you need to rethink your life.

9. Paint a picture.

Acrylic painting on canvas seems to be increasing in popularity and it's no wonder when you realize how fun it is! So hop on over to your local Wal-Mart or crafts store, grab some paints and a canvas and just have some fun with it. Pinterest has plenty of ideas available!

10. Try a new coffee shop.

While Dutch Bros will always have my heart, it's fun to grab a friend and try out a new coffee shop just for kicks and giggles.

The bottom line is, despite the rainy weather, there are better things to do than mope inside. So, let nature do its thing and enjoy some fun activities.