Make a Few Rainy-Day Goals

Rainy days are not only good for spring cleaning, says WiseBread, they’re good for pursuing larger goals, too. You might choose to start a savings fund, for example, or get to work on an all-encompassing five-year life plan. You might start a new hobby, or revisit an old one. A dreary day can lend itself to writing, so you might make a journal entry or catch up on correspondence. Hungry? Try a new recipe or better still, make a big batch of meals for the days and weeks ahead. Or just sleep, the story says: “If you’re the type of person who’s chronically under-rested, a rainy weekend day is the perfect time to sleep in.”

Super Bowl Snacks for the Vegetarian Viewer

Buffalo wings may be the quintessential nosh for a Super Bowl party, but not for the vegetarians in the crowd, who are getting more numerous every day. Good news: There are plenty of decadent gametime snacks that don’t require meat. Vegetarian chili may the most obvious offering; try a hearty slow-cooked version with sweet potatoes, Real Simple suggests. Guacamole, hummus, and baked artichoke-and-spinach dips can also satisfy the meat-free masses at your (non-excessive) celebration, as can home-baked soft pretzels and Portobello pizzas.

The Super Bowl Is Really About the Snacks

Super Bowl LIII kicks off on Sunday, pitting the New England Patriots against the Los Angeles Rams. No matter which team you root for, the Super Bowl is no longer just about the game — there are brand-new, multimillion-dollar ads and a star-studded halftime show to watch, plus snacks. If you’re hosting the festivities this year and don’t want to spend the entire day in the kitchen, check out the easy game-day recipes at Buzzfeed and Real Simple. Even the most rabid fans attending your party aren’t going to argue with nachos, guacamole, meatball sliders and five-alarm chili.

Ideas for the Thanksgiving Potluck

Cooking up a Thanksgiving feast is a big job, so it’s not unusual for the host to turn it into a potluck or request that certain guests bring a dish to pass. If you’re suddenly on the hook to bring a side, Southern Living offers plenty of last-minute recipes that will keep the crowd coming back for seconds, including glazed carrots, skillet mac-and-cheese, corn pudding and no less than five styles of mashed potatoes. And if you’re really stuck for something to bring but not at home in the kitchen, you can always put together a cheese tray or bread basket to complement the dinner.

Celebrate the Dog Days With Your Pet

The “dog days” of summer can be beastly hot, but they can be a great time to take your pup on an adventure, Vetstreet says. Go to the beach, take a nature hike, play in the park or go on an evening walk; just be sure your pet is ready for warm-weather exercise and keep plenty of fresh water on hand to keep him or her hydrated. You can also try making your own “pupsicles” to reward your furry friend with a special treat inexpensively after you’re done with your outdoor quality time.