Mount Hood

Delectable dessert made vegan

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

In order to make a change this large in your diet and habits, it’s a good idea to start with a simple recipe that will match your diet without having to sacrifice any of the flavor you’re used to.

When making these brownies, I was at first a little skeptical that they would taste as delicious as the ones I typically eat. However, just by the batter, I knew they’d be amazing. And yes, I did end up eating far too much of the batter. Plus, the batter didn’t have raw egg in it so it was risk-free.

After I pulled them out of the oven, the center had that warm, gooey, chocolatey consistency that’s to die for. The texture was more dense than a normal brownie, and every bite had my mouth watering. This is definitely a recipe worth trying if you’re considering that transition into veganism; it’s both simple and delectable.

 

Recipe:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 2 cups of white sugar, ¾ cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir the dry ingredients together until they are well combined.

To the dry ingredients, add 1 cup of water, 1 cup of vegetable oil and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. I added in ½ teaspoon of almond extract with mine as well, but you don’t have to do this.

Mix this until it’s well combined and there are no clumps in the batter. Spread the batter evenly into a 9×13 pan. I greased my pan by using vegetable oil on the bottom, then coating that with a thin layer of flour to avoid sticking.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until you reach your desired consistency. Personally I prefer mine a little more gooey, so I opted for about 25 to 27 minutes and it was perfect.

Allow brownies to cool for at least ten minutes before you begin cutting into them.

Recipe inspired by allrecipes.com

Contact the author at chealy16@mail.wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

Easing into veganism

Aubrey Manculich | Freelancer

If you’re considering transitioning to a vegan lifestyle, here are a couple quick tips to follow to make it easier to you than it was for me. When I made my decision, I lived in a college dorm and with my only food being from the dining hall, my options were limited. I had to figure out what I could eat and when it was available for me. Also, my family was very unsupportive and a lot of other people were too. I struggled a lot at first; here are some small things to keep in mind to make the transition more seamless for you.

Do some research before trying or committing to a vegan lifestyle. Just get yourself familiar with the types of vegans there are, what a vegan diet can do for you and maybe look at some recipes to get inspiration. It’s also a good idea to try and have a transition week before where animal product consumption is limited rather than simply cut off immediately.

Plan a two-week trial run for where you eat a strictly vegan diet. Pay attention to how you and your body begins to feel, especially toward the end of the trial.

Always check the contents and allergens part of your food’s nutritional information to see if there are any animal products. It’s also a good idea to check through the whole ingredient list — and sometimes look up the confusing ingredients — but usually the contents list will tell you right away. There are often vegan sections in grocery stores near produce or frozen vegetable areas and many vegan products have a “V” on them to distinguish them for convenience.

Realize that it may not be the most convenient life to live; there are fewer options when eating out and fewer easy options at the grocery store. You will have to cook your own food more often and many times it may be from scratch. However, there are countless cookbooks, online recipes and blogs to help. Some of my favorites include “Vegan with a Vengeance” by Isa Moskowitz, and the YouTube channel “Cheap Lazy Vegan.” The vegan community is much larger than you may think and it’s incredibly supportive.

If veganism is right for you, it’s a rewarding lifestyle that can give you a better relationship with your food and your health.

The most important thing to know is that it’s completely a personal decision, meaning you can live it however you want. Within that, the way any person chooses to live a vegan lifestyle will be entirely dependent on the reason they went vegan in the first place. Personally, I became vegan because most research I’ve seen regarding nutrition has shown me that whole foods and plant-based vegan diets promote the healthiest eating habits. As a result, colloquially, I call myself vegan despite really being what I call a “dietary vegan,” since I still use animal products, such as leather, but do not consume animal products.

Someone may choose to adopt a raw vegan diet because it’s supposed to be healthier, while another may decide to eat vegan with a cheat day once a month to avoid developing an intolerance to meat or eggs. Everyone can take part in a vegan lifestyle, however strict their opinion dictates their commitment should be.

When someone offers me food I can’t eat, I politely decline without further information why, unless they ask. If someone wants to make it public that they are vegan, more power to them, but not everyone does. If you’re worried about nutrition, simply pay careful attention to what you’re eating to ensure you get everything you need from a variety of foods. The point is, again, that it’s all up to you.

Contact the author at amanculich16@mail.wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

Watching what you share

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

For many, the usage of social media on a regular basis has become second nature. Whenever we get bored, we pull out our phones and instinctively pull up Instagram or Snapchat to see what people we do and do not know have been up to. For some of these people, their accounts have become similar to a personal diary, where they post anything and everything they can think of.

Social media is an ideal platform for many as a way to express their voice and opinions. While everyone is entitled to free speech and has the right to post whatever they feel is necessary, sometimes people can forget to really think about what they’re posting. What one chooses to share on the internet stays there forever, and may have an impact on their future.

Everything that’s posted is public. Think about it; one might think they’re safe by making their account private, but what happens as soon as one person screenshots something? Maybe you wanted to share something personal on your private Instagram account, then it was saved and spread. If the thought of that isn’t bothersome, then posting those types of things is okay. But recognize that nothing is truly private; a setting won’t stop posts from spreading.

Think about your current or future jobs. Would your employer be okay with what they see on your account? If one uses their platform to criticize a coworker, a customer, or even just to complain about their job, this could make their boss or whoever they work with uncomfortable, and probably very unhappy. A common guideline to follow is to not post anything about your coworkers that you wouldn’t say to their faces. While everyone needs to complain from time to time, choose to do so without involving the internet; just talk it out with someone.

Everyone thinks they’re a comedian on the internet. However,  just one misinterpreted comment can lead to an uproar and many offended people. While a post may seem funny, if the wrong audience reads it, it can get you into trouble. In person, if something like this were to happen, many people would apologize and explain themselves. However, on the internet, it will linger with you forever and could hurt reputations. Before posting a joke or any comment, really give it thought. Use the perspective of multiple people, then decide if it’s really worth posting.

Ultimately, the things we choose to share on the internet are going to follow us forever. It’s very important that everyone shares their voice, and social media makes it easy for everyone to do. Just make sure that what you’re choosing to share is something you’re comfortable with everyone seeing; you never know what the repercussions might be.

Contact the author at chealy16@mail.wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

Where to study at Western

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

It’s no secret that within the boundaries of Western’s campus lies several spots that would make the ideal study area. No matter your preference when it comes time to hit the books, the campus has a spot that will work well for you.

One of the most obvious spots that some students have yet to utilize is Hamersly Library. This location is ideal for multiple study types. If you like complete peace and quiet, the third floor will offer you not only entire silence, but bright lighting and windows to sit near and get work done. “I like the library,” commented sophomore ASL/English interpreting major Lexi Osborn, “It’s quiet and it’s really easy to get stuff done there.”

However, there are also perks to studying on the first floor of the library. “I like studying there at the dry erase tables,” noted junior business major Riley Hawken. “It’s a social hangout at times because you get to see people you know walking in and out of the library.”

The dry erase tables are also located right next to The Press, so you can grab your caffeine fix to keep you going and it won’t sacrifice much of your time.

Finally, the library offers the 24-hour room, which means that if you need a place to study, at any point in the day or night, you can find yourself in there.

If you wanted to work in the library, but find that it’s crowded, you can actually reserve spots to study in the Werner University Center. Or, if you walk to the far end of the second floor of the WUC, there are multiple couches and tables to study at, located right next to the Willamette Room.

If you like to study with music to keep you energized, a good place to go would be the Health and Wellness Center. With multiple couches on the first floor to keep you comfortable and bright lighting to keep you awake, this would be the ideal spot for someone who doesn’t mind a little bit of noise to keep you attentive and focused on your studying.

Another notable indoor place to include is DeVolder. It has huge dry erase boards for people to write on while studying, and many of the chairs include a desk attachment. Located right next to the Health and Wellness Center, it’s an easy location that doesn’t get too busy.

Ackerman offers study rooms to students, as well. They are first come first serve, but it’s worth checking out. Note that the doors do lock after 10 p.m. on weekdays, and it’s closed all weekend, so you’ll want to go before then.

If you’re someone who enjoys studying outside when it begins getting a little warmer, there are outdoor options as well. Studying in front of the WUC offers you several benches, tables and chairs. If you want to go somewhere a little more secluded, there are several tables located on the side of the Richard Woodcock Education Center that are rarely used. If you’re just trying to find a nice bench to sit on and read, the best option would be the ones located between the ITC and APSC building. With pretty views and hidden away from everyone, they will keep you focused and peaceful while you’re studying.

Contact the author at chealy16@mail.wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

Getting creative with your dates

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

Valentine’s Day, the one day a year where the main focus is simply “love.” While for some, it means spending a day with that special someone and displaying your affection and passion for them through countless romantic gestures. For others, it means finding yourself on a date with someone you barely know, taking a leap of faith in the name of love simply for the fact that they are your “valentine” of the day. But when it comes down to it, however you choose to spend the day, one thing remains true: it does not have to involve spending a lot of money.

Taking somebody out on a date, or even taking yourself on a date doesn’t have to mean spending your savings on the night. There are plenty of other ways you can spend the day that will mean just as much; you just have to get creative.

An easy go-to for many when it comes to going out on a date is something that most everyone loves: food. But taking someone out for a bite can still be just as special without breaking the bank. There are other options than high-end restaurants. Think about a food that might be special to you and your date specifically. Maybe you bonded over a milkshake somewhere; take them back to that spot and replay that date. Perhaps you know they’ve wanted to try a restaurant out for awhile. Use this day as an opportunity to go try it out.

Both of these will mean a lot more than taking your date to a random restaurant that has absolutely no meaning. But also, don’t be afraid to change it up. If you and your partner visit the same places frequently, I can almost guarantee they will appreciate something new.

If you want to win some bonus points, you can also cook for your date. A well-made, home-cooked meal isn’t something that many college students get to enjoy often. Your date will recognize the hard-work and effort that went into the planning, cooking and presentation of the meal. To kick it up a notch, set up the table with a candle and tell them to dress nicely to make it feel like you’re at a five-star restaurant.

Plan something creative for your date. Rather than simply saying you’re having a movie night, do it up like you’re in a theater. Make popcorn and go to Dollar Tree and purchase cheap candy and drinks. With the money you saved, you can even buy some comfortable fuzzy socks and a cheap, soft blanket that your date will undoubtedly appreciate during your movie night. To make it even more extravagant, buy some fun lights to put up around the room. Or, become kids again and set up your movie night in a blanket fort for an ultimate comfortable, cozy night.

If it’s your first date with someone, you want to make sure they’re comfortable. This can often mean doing something more public. The best way you can do this is by making an adventure out of it. Go somewhere neither of you have been before. Maybe this means taking a bike ride together throughout Monmouth to enjoy the rare bits of sun we’ve been getting. Or, head to Independence and go to somewhere like Second Chance Books to get to know your partner a little more. If you purchase your date a cheap book with the note that something about it made you think of them, I guarantee they will cherish it and be far more flattered than if you just gave them chocolates.

While there’s nothing wrong with the basic Valentine’s Day dates of dinner, flowers and chocolate, sometimes you might find it beneficial to change it up a bit. But in the end, do whatever you think would make you and your date happiest. If that means going to an expensive restaurant, go for it. Just know that there are different ways to spend the holiday. Thinking outside of the box can often lead to the best date you’ve had yet.

Contact the author at chealy16@mail.wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

Delicious Combinations offers a new take on Monmouth cuisine

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

A problem that I tend to come across when trying to find something to eat around Western is that it’s all the same. I’ve become so tired of eating the same things every time I go out that it started to feel like I was just wasting my money. When I noticed the food truck “Delicious Combinations” sitting off of Main Street, I was instantly intrigued.

On a beautiful, warm sunny day, my boyfriend and I decided we should go ahead and give it a try. So we made our way over without knowing anything about any of their dishes. Luckily, the woman who was taking our order was incredibly kind and willing to answer all of my many questions, and even gave me free samples when I asked which of two items she recommended.

At first, I was a little disappointed because even having only two types of meat on their menu, chicken and lamb, they had already run out of chicken. However, I figured I should probably try something new anyways and I ordered the lamb shawarma entree, which came with hummus and tabouleh, a salad with ingredients such as parsley, mint, onion and tomatoes. My boyfriend ordered the lamb shawarma wrap.

I found my meal to be pretty good. I wasn’t super impressed, but I enjoyed what I ate and never found myself disliking anything on my plate. Perhaps it just wasn’t my thing; my entree didn’t have a ton of flavor and felt kind of boring. The sides were more flavorful, yet I simply didn’t love  the taste. Though my boyfriend enjoyed his meal more than I enjoyed mine, both of us were satisfied. However, I wouldn’t really say anything more than that. It was good, not great. The servings aren’t super large, but it also really isn’t expensive so I wouldn’t expect them to be. You definitely get what you pay for.

Overall, I would say that everything was cooked well, and the presentation was pleasing which I enjoyed. But I don’t think it’s somewhere I’ll be returning to frequently. The best part about it was the customer service, as the person who took my order was always bearing a smile and wanted to make sure we were enjoying every bite. She almost makes it worth returning again.

I think it’s something I would recommend to students in the area who want to give something new a try. It was definitely unlike anything else I’ve had around here, and I’m still glad that I decided to eat there.

Contact the author at chealy16@mail.wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

Lowering your electric bill made easy

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

A milestone in the lives of many students comes after living on your own for the first full month- receiving and paying your very first electric bill. Typically, that one is easy enough to pay. But suddenly, you find yourself in the winter months. The heat is coming on more frequently, the lights are coming on earlier and staying on longer, and your bill is increasing dramatically.

Luckily for you, there are ways to save other than opting for keeping the heat off and freezing. Little tricks can keep you from paying an arm and a leg each month, and you’ll still be able to live happily in your home — just with a smaller bill.

The first spot to look into is your dishwasher, if you have one. Think about how you load your washer before running it. If you find yourself having to rewash things, you’re likely loading your washer too full. Or, if you find yourself running the dishwasher constantly because the loads are too small, you’ll also run into problems. Running your dishwasher repeatedly can get expensive, so save yourself the trouble and do it efficiently. Load your dishes in correctly, wash it all once it’s full enough to run, but not too full, and do it less frequently. Or, you can even opt to just washing things by hand if you only have a few dishes.

In response to ways she chooses to save, sophomore Maria Krueger commented that “little things help. Just keeping appliances off, turning off the lights and heat before I leave. Things like that.”

According to lifehacker.com, “appliances and electronics account for about 17 percent of energy use in the average American household.” However, they also mention that some appliances do use more energy, such as gaming systems, electric kettles, desktop computers and television sets. While remembering to constantly turn off and unplug everything can get annoying, you can easily fix this by using power strips. Then, instead of having to turn off every device everyday, you can just turn off the power strip when you don’t need it on.

Do you have a washer and dryer in your home? Using the dryer will crank up your bill an incredible amount. If you can, air drying is the way to go. However, this isn’t always easy to do. So if you want to keep using your washer/dryer, measure your loads well. Similar to the dishwasher, doing too many loads or doing ones that are simply too large will just end up getting expensive. So save yourself the time and money, and measure how you wash your clothes efficiently.

While these tips may seem small, I’ve managed to use many of them to save me a ton each month. The biggest thing to remember is to be aware of the energy you are using. Keep the lights off when you don’t need them, use blankets before you crank up the heat, turn off appliances you aren’t using. Make some small changes in your daily habits to save yourself the pain of a sky-high bill at the end of the month.

Contact the author at chealy16@mail.wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

Saving cash on coffee

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

At Home

The cheapest option for starting your day with that morning cup of coffee is ultimately to make it at home. While it may not be as convenient as getting it on the go, the amount you’ll save is incredible. Think about it, you spend maybe $3 to $5 per cup when purchasing one cup of coffee. That money will add up quick.

But even when you are making it at home, there are ways to make that cheaper as well. First of all, buy beans instead of ground coffee. Whole beans stay fresh for a lot longer than ground coffee, so you’ll be able to keep them in your cupboard even longer. One trick for keeping your coffee beans or grounds fresh is to keep them in an airtight container and away from any light, heat or moisture. Avoiding those few things will keep your coffee tasting better longer, and you won’t feel like you have to throw it away too soon.

If you find yourself drinking your coffee too quickly and having to constantly buy more, you’ll find it to be a cheaper option to buy your beans in bulk. Waremart offers this, and if you live further away, you can also find it at stores such as Fred Meyer.

Make just enough coffee that you’re planning to drink. Think about how often you make a full pot of coffee, and then find yourself only having one cups worth. So much coffee has been wasted this way, so think ahead of time and make yourself one cup at a time. Or, you can opt for a french press. Not only does this allow you to regulate how much coffee you make, it gives it a more robust flavor.

That being said, if you do have leftover coffee, save it. It reheats a lot better than you’d think. You could also freeze it and make coffee ice cubes, which is perfect for if you make yourself an iced coffee or any iced drink that you’d like to kick up a notch with a little bit of java.

Perhaps you’re craving coffee that has a little more flavor than your usual drip; there are definitely some at-home options for you too. Purchasing a bottle of flavored syrup that will last you awhile costs about the same as a Frappuccino. And, it allows you to be creative and mix and match different syrups at home.

Coffee Shop

Sometimes, you simply do not have enough time to brew yourself a pot of coffee. When this happens, and you really need that kick of caffeine, most find themselves heading to their favorite coffee shop. While this can undoubtedly get expensive, there are a few key ways you can get away without spending an arm and a leg.

Order your coffee or iced drink with light ice — doing this oftentimes means you will get more beverage for your buck. Places like Dutch Bros confirms this to be true. So next time you order that iced coffee, make sure to do it with less ice — and with more caffeine, preferably.

While you’re at it, Dutch Bros also confirms that adding extra sweetener to your drink comes at no cost. If you’re worried about getting the best deal, might as well amp it up with some extra sweetness, as it won’t have any effect on your wallet.

You can also save money by purchasing your coffee on campus. Both Caffè Allegro and The Press will give you a 25 cent discount if you bring in your reusable coffee cup. While that might not seem like a lot, it can quickly add up if you’re someone who buys frequently.

Get creative with the drink you are purchasing. Sometimes, some shops will have cheaper deals of the day, why not try those? Caffè Allegro gives 25 to 50 cent discounts on their daily specials which are always changing. You can also try to mix up the drink you’re used to getting. For instance, if you like to order a grande iced white mocha at Starbucks, instead order an iced grande triple espresso with four pumps of white mocha. The first one only has two shots of espresso, and is over $4 — while the latter has three shots and is roughly $3. If you choose to get less flavor, it would be even cheaper. Try testing out different combinations like this to get the cheapest option for the same coffee taste you know and love.

And of course, you can always opt to just get a drip coffee, as they are cheapest at any shop. Then, most will supply coffee creamer you can just use for free. During the winter, I would purchase a drip coffee on campus and use the peppermint mocha creamer they had for free. It tasted just like a peppermint mocha, only it was $2 cheaper.

Contact the author at chealy16@mail.wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

Dear Ezi

 

Dear Lazy is the New Black,

Oooo kitty friend! I get you! Senioritis is real, heck even Google Docs recognizes it as a word! I’m not sure if senioritis is what you are experiencing but it sashays on to folks hard during winter term! I know the best way you can combat that is just forcing yourself to start something — other than a new show on Netflix — and stick to it. Once you start something don’t stop till you have a good portion of it done! Starting something is honestly the hardest part, once you get passed that things may be easier!

There are also more complicated things that could be at play, if you feel comfortable I’d make an appointment at the counseling center! If you are a full-time student it is free! The ole’ brain wranglers over there can help with many mental things! They are wonderful and they could help you better than this humble drag queen could ever. I am trained in death drops and lipsync; they are trained in all the things that go on in the old wig holder!

There is no perfect option for anyone, but for some people once they get motivated they don’t stop. Try bribing yourself with coffee or your treat of choice. The caffeine and sugar can help give you energy to do things! Best of luck my dear!

Ezi

P.S Once you get some stuff done you should watch Grace and Frankie, it’s great! BUT only after you get your stuff done.

P.S.S. I am serious!!!

 

Got a question that you’re dying to ask Ezi? Send them to chealy16@wou.edu.

Staying healthy during winter

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

Welcome to Monmouth, Oregon. The average temperature in February is 42.3 degrees, we get about 41 inches of rain per year and we see 154 sunny days. That being said, it’s obvious that in this area, it can be very easy to find yourself unhealthy during the winter months. Actively trying to stay healthy, especially on a college campus, is incredibly important for your well-being.

It’s important that you are getting all the essential vitamins your body needs. With such little exposure to sunlight, it’s imaginable that many students at Western are lacking in the necessary Vitamin D their body needs to function. This can be found in many foods, such as fatty fishes and eggs. However, you can also opt to take a multivitamin. That way you can assure that you’re not only getting the proper amount of Vitamin D, you’re also getting all the other key vitamins that your body might be missing this time of year.  

Get moving. This one is probably not that surprising, as exercise helps with most any health-related issue that you’re experiencing. It even prevents a common cold. According to a study by the University of South Carolina, men who got in three hours of moderate activity a day were 35% less likely to catch a cold than those who only got one hour. So just take any opportunity you can to get up and get moving, even if it’s just to take a quick walk for a study break.

Wash your hands frequently. This one cannot be stressed enough. Viruses can live on surfaces for hours. All it takes is for you to touch one unsanitary surface and you could be next. And of course, if you are sick you shouldn’t be spreading your germs either. Wash your hands before and after eating, and often between those as well.

On top of this, don’t forget to wash your winter coat as well. How often do you wash the jackets you wear out during this time of year? Think about all the places you’ve been in those, the people you’ve been around, and what you may have been exposed to. Be safe, and wash your winter clothes.

Finally, get the right amount of sleep for your body. According to a study done by the University of California on 165 adults, those who slept 6 hours were four times more likely to develop a cold than those who had gotten seven hours. Protect your body, get the sleep it deserves.

If you do find yourself becoming ill, head to the Student Health and Counseling Center for a free cold and flu kit. In that you’ll find medicine, thermometers, lozenges and more to keep you healthy and get you back on your feet.

Contact the author at chealy16@wou.edu

Conquering seasonal affective disorder

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

The days get shorter, natural light is scarce and the weather is gloomy and gray. The peak of the winter season for many students may just mean bundling up in extra layers and trying to stay warm and dry in the cold Monmouth rain. For other students, likely over five percent, it means something far more serious and troubling.

Seasonal affective disorder, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, is a “type of depression that comes and goes with seasons, typically starting in late fall and early winter.” While it often can be confused as its own disorder, it’s actually a subtype of major depression, with much of the same symptoms.

Like depression, it can come in many different levels of severity. Some feel what would be described as “winter blues,” while others can be hit with profound, debilitating symptoms. Neither should be taken lightly.

According to a study based in Maryland conducted by Dr. Norman Rosenthal, who led the original research on seasonal affective disorder, 1 in 20 seniors in high school had already had “full-fledged SAD.” Rosenthal also believes that college students experience this in even higher numbers.

There are a couple reasons for this belief. First is due to disturbed biological rhythms. When at home, many students have parents or guardians who help them wake up in the morning, go to sleep at a more reasonable time and essentially regulate their circadian rhythms. However, with the start of college, many are experiencing that newfound freedom for the first time. With it comes a disturbance in their patterns, delaying their cycles.

The second reason he believes college students are hit even harder is the increase in workload over each term. Around this time, right in the middle of the year, is when many students begin falling behind. Work begins piling up, and you can feel like you are drowning. This compounds the problem.

If you believe that you or someone you know is affected by SAD, there is some advice that Rosenthal has for you. First of all, you need to recognize the problem. Know what symptoms to look for. This includes “changes in energy, sleep, appetite, weight, concentration and engagement with others.” When you notice these symptoms, take them seriously.

Bring more light into where you live. Natural light, according to the American Psychological Association, can be very therapeutic. The earlier in the day you expose yourself to it, the better.

Exercise in natural light. Outdoor workouts are a great option. However, if you prefer indoor, working out at the Health and Wellness Center during daylight hours works just as well. With the several windows and skylights, the room is flooded with natural light.

Be socially active. It’s understandable that this can be very hard to do. You don’t have to get out of your comfort zone if you are someone who doesn’t socialize often. However, time with people who are important to you and know how to cheer you up can be beneficial.

Finally, if you feel that you, your schoolwork or your mental or physical health is affected by SAD, seek help. The Student Health and Counseling Center takes appointments, or if it’s an emergency, allows people to be seen immediately. With their help and support, SAD is something that can be conquered.

It’s best not to wait until it gets worse; staying on top of your seasonal disorder and being aware of it helps lessen the weight of it. While how one chooses to cope with it is different for everyone, know that there are options. Know that you are not alone in this.

Contact the author at chealy16@wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

DIY nail art made simple

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

Getting your nails done professionally is not a cheap thing to do. Getting a set of acrylics can be in the upwards of $40, and a simple manicure can be around $20. While neither are outrageously expensive, it’s more than I’d like to spend on something I don’t necessarily need. That being said, I do enjoy having a fun look painted on my nails, as it gives me a sense of confidence I don’t always have.

Unfortunately, I am the absolute worst at doing my nails. Most of the time, the majority of the paint ends up on my skin rather than my nail. For that reason, I have found some simple nail art that can be done at home by even the least coordinated, such as myself. So pull out some polish, and inevitably some polish remover, and get started.

 

Matte Polish

Get a clean dish, and mix a few drops of your nail polish with small amounts of eye shadow or some other powder with a toothpick. Mix small amounts of powder at a time. Note that it will not look matte when wet, but as it dries, it will be more obvious.

Inspired by evergreenbeauty.edu

 

Polka-Dot Design

Use the round end of a bobby pin to add a polka-dot look to your nails. Feel free to use this design however you’d like. The dots can be all over the nail-bed, follow a straight line, or whatever you decide you want to do.

Inspired by sortrature.com

 

Utilize Sharpies

Thin sharpies make for some really fun designs. Especially if you opt for a gold or silver sharpie, you can easily add designs to your nails that look professional. These can quickly come off with rubbing alcohol if you decide you don’t like the look.

 

Tape Designs

Cut tape into the shape you want on your nails, and paint right over it. You don’t even have to cut it. Strategically placed tape can give you fun, diagonal nails that are incredibly easy to do.

Contact the author at chealy16@wou.edu

Photo by: Caity Healy

Navigating conflict for successful relationships

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

While there has never been a time in my life where I’ve found it enjoyable to get into an argument with a significant other, I have noticed a pattern — I either leave the conflict feeling absolutely horrible, or I leave with a feeling of relief and optimism. Obviously, I prefer the latter. As much as I hate conflict with the person I love, it’s important to note that healthy and fair disputes are a necessary component to a flourishing relationship.

Healthy, fair fights can lead to many benefits that you wouldn’t necessarily realize. The fact is that all couples argue. It’s unavoidable to spend so much time with someone and not find yourself bickering over something. However, successful couples disagree differently.

According to Dr. Aislinn Addington, director of Abby’s House, a healthy argument means “listening to each other and respecting each others needs. If at the end, you both move forward, then that is great.”

Some other tips to keep your disagreements healthy include not running from an argument. If something is bothering you, and you know it will continue to bother you, it needs to be said. While it may be difficult and probably uncomfortable, it’s necessary that both partners are included and in the loop when it comes to important topics. Speak your mind.

Remember that you are a team. You are in your relationship together, and keeping that thought in the back of your head during an argument can help you remember that you chose to be with this person for a reason. Don’t let a dispute keep you from seeing that.

The benefits to a clean, healthy argument are more extensive than you’d think. Opening up to each other can create a sense of trust. Letting a partner know that you trust them enough to let them see your true feelings will ultimately make them feel more included and accepted. Also, holding things in will cause damage to your relationship. Talking about things early on will stop it from piling on and weighing even heavier on your shoulders.

Healthy conflict is a way for you to grow as a couple. Look at a fair dispute as an opportunity to progress together and become intimate in a way you hadn’t been before. With all this being said, while a healthy fight is incredibly beneficial, it’s important to know the difference between a fair fight and an unhealthy one.

“Look for patterns. If you’re clear with your needs and your partner chooses to disregard that, that’s unhealthy,” Dr. Addington commented. “Having the same fight over and over again, or if it escalates is something to watch out for.” Fighting just to fight versus fighting for the sake of a resolution is another thing to look for. If you feel like you aren’t being heard and are simply talking to no one, this is a bad sign and an indicator of an unhealthy relationship.

Any fight that turns personal, where your partner begins making jabs at you as a person rather than something you did to hurt them, is unhealthy. “Sometimes it starts with put-downs and name calling,” Addington added, “and it generally becomes something worse over time.” Watch out for this, and make sure you aren’t doing it yourself.

And lastly, of course, any type of abusive argument or fight is incredibly dangerous and a huge red flag. Do not take this lightly. Whether it be physical, emotional, verbal or mental, it is never okay. If you find yourself in a situation like this, know that there are people you can talk to. Abby’s House in the Werner University Center offers services for people experiencing domestic and dating violence. You can also call the National Domestic Abuse Hotline at 1-800-799-3224.

Contact the author at chealy16@wou.edu

Photo by: Caity Healy

Traveling on a budget

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

It may only be week three, but with all the rain in the forecast, the only thing my mind can go to is spring break. While it still is a while away, now is the best time to start planning your trips.

You may be thinking that as a college student, on a college student budget, there is no way you can afford to travel anywhere. However, with some proper planning and research, it’s actually a lot cheaper than you’d think. Here are some tips on how to prepare yourself for a trip that won’t break the bank.

 

  1. Start planning ahead of time

The best time to plan when prices are usually the lowest is about three months before you’re trying to travel. So if you’re planning a trip for spring break, now is the time to do it.

  1. Utilize apps such as Kayak

They help you search for flights to and from wherever you’re trying to go, and it also will denote certain days that have better deals. For instance, it’ll tell you whether you should purchase your tickets then or wait. You can also look at Google Flights, which will give you the price for every single day for any destination at the best price.

  1. Use social media

Follow accounts on Twitter such as @airfarewatchdog and @theflightdeal, as they will tweet when there is glitches or good deals regularly.

  1. Break your trip down into shorter legs

Rather than flying straight from home to your destination, you may find it cheaper to make stops and connect from one airport to the next. It’s important to do your research and check all of your options.

  1. Think about where you are staying

There are a lot of cheaper ways to lodge than staying in a hotel. Airbnb offers international stay for a lot less, and often will have full kitchens so you can even cook for yourself instead of eating out every night- which obviously will get expensive. You can also look into hostels if you are open to a shared space with others.
6. Pick the right destination

When planning your trip, think about where might be a cheaper place to go. The location will play a huge part in the price. You can still fly internationally and do so on a budget, but some places are far more expensive than others.

  1. Pack light

Bringing that extra suitcase will cost you more than you’d think. Save yourself the hassle of bringing a checked bag, and just bring the necessities.

  1. When you’re there, live cheap

Do things that cost you very little or nothing at all, and try to limit how much money you’re spending on different activities. Rather, go for a walk around the city, a hike, a walk on the beach or listen to some live street music. There are ways to enjoy your time traveling at very little cost.

 

Contact the author at chealy16@wou.edu

Mixing it up with protein shakes

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

Protein is an incredibly vital component to any healthy and balanced diet. Your body uses it to build and repair tissue, and it’s an important building block in your muscle, blood, skin and more. Unlike many other nutrients, our body has no protein stores that it can go to when you need it. For that reason, you need to supplement this through your choice of foods.

A really convenient and useful product to help get your levels where they need to be is protein powder. However, if you’re similar to many, you have trouble finding any protein that doesn’t taste and smell absolutely awful. Through trial and error — and more error — and eventually success, I’ve been able to find some recipes that actually make protein enjoyable — mostly due to the fact that all the other ingredients overpower the taste. So, if you’re looking to get that boost of protein to your diet, try out some of these recipes that will have you questioning if there’s really any of the supplement actually in it.

Total protein count for each recipe may vary depending on brands used.

 

Mixed Berry Smoothie:

-Combine one-half cup of frozen mixed berries (I like using strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries) with one-fourth cup of vanilla greek yogurt, one-fourth cup of orange juice, and 1 scoop of vanilla protein. Blend until well mixed. If you need more liquid to reach desired viscosity, add water.

Total Protein: 22 Grams

 

Peanut Butter Chocolate Smoothie:

-Combine 1 cup of sweetened almond milk with 2 tablespoons of natural peanut butter, 1 scoop of chocolate protein, 1 teaspoon of honey and 1 frozen banana cut into small pieces. Blend together, and if you want it thicker, add more ice. If you would like, add a teaspoon of dark chocolate syrup.

Total Protein: 34 Grams

 

Orange Cream Smoothie:

-Combine one-half cup of vanilla ice cream (for highest protein, opt for brands like Halo Top), one-fourth cup sweetened almond milk, one-half cup orange juice, 1 scoop vanilla protein, one-half teaspoon vanilla extract. Blend, and add ice if it needs to be thickened.

Total Protein: 22.5 Grams

 

Contact the author at chealy16@wou.edu

Photo by: Caity Healy

Confront your consumption

Paul F. Davis | Photo Editor

Most people in the United States know that our shared over-consumption of the Earth’s resources is fundamentally changing our air and ecosystems. It’s hard sometimes to not feel downtrodden about our failure to be stewards of the Earth, but don’t feel down; you can make a difference through changing a few habits and being aware of the things you are using. Together we can make a drastic difference in the Earth’s future just by eliminating our use of a few consumables.

If you haven’t heard, there has been an uproar on social media about our use of straws — believe the hype. Straws are one of the many wasteful and unnecessary things our culture prides itself on consuming. When going out to a coffee shop or eating at a restaurant, just get in the habit of saying, “Thank you, I don’t need a straw” or bring your own reusablez one.

But straws are not the only wasteful thing we consume, they are only the tip of the metaphorical iceberg. While eating or drinking ask yourself, “do I really need that?” Because how often do you really use those plastic utensils, napkins or bags after you’re done giving into your human needs?  Change your habits, change the world.

Another unnecessary consumable that our culture loves to use are tubes in the middle of our rolls of toilet paper? The tubes make it easier for the paper to turn around the pole in the center. This use of tubes, however, isn’t even necessary. Toilet paper still works to the last sheet without a tube in the center and they sell it for a lower price as well. So college students, go out to the store, Waremart or Roths, and buy some tubeless and more affordable toilet paper.

Ever stop to think where all your night-out glitter goes after your evening of debauchery? It often enters our waterways. Those microplastics, any plastic smaller than a fifth of an inch, are one of the worst things for waterways. These microplastics take one of two paths when they enter a river or where ever our waste water enters. This glitter is either mistaken as food by our aquatic friends, any river dwelling animal, or as the microplastic lands on river beds where it slowly leaches out chemicals that are not advantageous for any living creature and sometimes even carcinogenic. So once again, ask yourself, do you really need to use that glitter?

Together let’s change our habits and start to ask do we really need this or that, and apply that thought process to everything we use. When we develop this skill, we will use less. When we use less, we have all made a decision to work towards the betterment of our Earth’s future.

Contact the author at pfdavis14@wou.edu

Photo by: Tiia Monto

 

What does anxiety look like to you?

Paul F. Davis

Mikaela Wong | Freelancer

I had my first panic attack when I was 8-years-old. I wasn’t able to understand the reality of what it was until I was 19 and started getting them more regularly. The feeling was always familiar: my chest got tight, my throat closed up, my eyes widened and my breathing started getting quicker and shorter. I felt as if I was drowning; I had no control.
To me, anxiety is the constant feeling of being on-edge or fidgety that never goes away, but just varies in levels and extremeness. It can sometimes get the better of me when I’m overwhelmed by responsibilities, if I’m surrounded by too many people and become socially exhausted or sometimes for no apparent reason at all.
In my specific case, my problem is that I have a high-functioning personality, meaning that I am very good at hiding my problems and feelings. Instead, I use it to fuel my motivation to accomplish or achieve things. Not that I believe that accomplishing things is bad, but using it to distract or deviate my mind and others’ from what is bothering me can be. It reached a point where I was achieving so much and had everything that I thought I would need in order to be happy, yet I still asked myself why I felt empty inside.

While there are many ways in which people choose to deal with their mental disorders, I chose to start seeing a therapist when I noticed the behavioral patterns heading in a negative direction.
I was diagnosed with major depression and extreme anxiety. My therapist told me that achievement was a common way of coping with deeper issues, as if my self-worth was dependent on how much I could get done. But that in reality, I just needed to be and exist without needing to prove myself to anyone, including myself.
In order to do that, I had to practice being “mindful”. This meant teaching myself to be in the moment and forcing myself to observe things I directly saw instead of worrying about what it meant, or letting my mind wander into the hypothetical world or over-analyzation it tended to go to whenever my anxiety would rise. “What if I didn’t study enough for that test? What if my friends are just pretending to like me? What if my life doesn’t look like how I want it to in 10 years?”

Instead, when presented with a situation where I felt my anxiety sneaking up on me, I focus on my body and observe which parts of me are feeling tight and rigid. Then as I slowly and consciously relax that muscle, I visualize the stress leaving my body and become more aware of my posture and position. I will take five minutes to ground myself and become aware of my breathing while observing colors, shapes and textures, before continuing to proceed with my day.
Mental disorders and self-care are going to be different and look different to everyone. Asking for help isn’t a weakness and finding out how to take care of yourself isn’t a waste of time. Life is a process for you, not a presentation for others. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. You can visit the Student Health and Counseling Center for a confidential appointment, free to any student registered with six or more credit hours.

Meal-prepping made easy

Caity Healy

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

A new and increasingly more common trend amongst many, especially those who are health-conscious or ones on a budget, is food prepping. Cooking the meals that you will eat throughout the week and storing them in containers offers a simple way to keep you prepared, and can lead to more discipline in what you choose to eat if you’re focusing on your health.

The problem that many people can run into when eating healthy is that it’s not cheap. Purchasing fresh produce and high-protein meals can tend to get expensive. This is especially true when you purchase more than you can actually use, and it goes bad before you even have the chance to use it. However, with some proper meal planning, this can be easily avoided.

Before shopping, know what you want your meals to be. To do that, try to think of what meals would most closely reflect the diet that you’re trying to consume. Make sure that whatever you choose is of the right amount of calories, protein, carbohydrates, fat and whatever other nutrients you’re trying to reach. Once you map out your meals for the allotted time that you’re prepping for, you can compile a grocery list that you’ll stick to once you head to the store.

While shopping, it’s a good idea to buy things in bulk, as you’ll typically use most of it while prepping everything and it’ll offer you the cheapest option. For example, if you’re planning for chicken breasts to be part of your prep, your best bet would be to purchase a bag of frozen chicken breasts as it costs far less than unfrozen and can go further.

Another thing to think about when shopping is if you’re trying to stick to a budget, are there cheaper things that you can replace items with? Certain meats are equally as high in protein but cost far less; some vegetables last longer and therefore will be cheaper in the long run as you won’t have to throw anything out.

When cooking, cook all of one item at a time. Cook any meats together all at once, all vegetables together and so on. Then, once everything is done, you can separate everything you’ve cooked based on how long you’re prepping for. Be reasonable; only prep for the days where you know you won’t be cooking.

When everything is all prepped and put into containers, you’re ready to go. Just make sure that you don’t prep things too far ahead of time. For instance, cooked chicken only lasts about four days in the fridge. Make sure that what you’re choosing to cook will stay fresh.

 

Contact the author at chealy16@wou.eduIMG_3729

Small ways to make side cash

Paul F. Davis

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

Here’s a fact that many of us know far too well: college is not cheap. For many, the stress of being a full-time student can be far too heavy to even consider finding a side job. And for those who have a job as well as being a student, sometimes you still don’t feel like you have enough money in the bank to live comfortably.

Luckily, being a college student allows for some opportunities to make money that are fairly low commitment. While nothing can come incredibly easy, there are ways that you can still make some cash without the stress of working hours every week. Choosing to take up any of these options allows you to focus on being a student first and lets you leave some of your financial stress behind.

 

-Be a note-taker in your classes, if applicable. You’ll already be there; doing this forces you to really pay attention to the lectures and jot things down. Not only will you be making money, but you’ll do better in school. You can apply in the Office of Disabilities.

-Sell things online. I’m not saying to sell everything you own, but think about what you have that you never use. Or, you could even buy things second-hand and resell it for profit.

-Tutor. Are you really good at your major? You can make money by helping others reach the skill level you are at. For more information and to apply, contact the Student Success and Advising Office.

-Babysit/petsit. Living in a college town, it can be hard to remember that we do live in a city where many families live. Many parents would love to hire a trustworthy and qualified college student versus an unqualified high school student.

-Freelance writing. Here at the paper, we would love to have talented writers share their voice; for more information feel free to contact me or any staff member.

-Use your talents. Can you knit? Sew? Paint? Are you good at making signs? People will pay for handmade, quality products. Start small by selling to people you know, and eventually you could branch out to different customers.

 

Contact the author at chealy16@wou.edu

Dining out of town for date-night

Caity Healy

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

While Monmouth offers several delicious quick-bites, if you’re looking to go somewhere a little fancier, your options are limited. I knew that I wanted to take my boyfriend out for a slightly more elegant dinner to thank him for helping me move — to be honest it was mostly because I had just purchased a really cute dress and needed an excuse to wear it out — and I found myself looking out of town, but still fairly close by for a nice eatery.

After some research, I decided I would take him to Bentley’s Grill in Salem. The reviews looked promising, the menu had my mouth watering and the prices looked doable for a college student budget, while not being as cheap as some chain restaurants. We set our reservations for 7 p.m. on a Friday, a typically busy day, and they were still able to get us a nice table for exactly when we requested.

Once we arrived, we found the restaurant in an extravagant looking lobby in the Grand Hotel. Immediately, we were greeted and seated by smiling faces who gladly took our drink orders — we had many options as the location also had a full bar — and were given our menus.

I started by ordering their calamari with lemon roasted garlic aioli. My boyfriend isn’t a huge fan of seafood, but we both still very much enjoyed the appetizer which came out to us quickly. The serving size was perfect for a starter and it was fried perfectly.

Not too long after, we were brought our dinners. I ordered their Fulton New York cut steak with roasted garlic mashed potatoes and a vegetable side. My boyfriend ordered their special of the day, which was ribs with arugula, rice and a sun-dried tomato salad. My steak was cooked perfectly medium-rare, and his ribs were incredibly tender. Everything was cooked just as we had ordered it.

The waitress was checking up on us frequently, making sure everything was served to our liking. She was always incredibly kind and genuinely seemed as if she wanted to make the best experience for us as possible.

We finished our dinner by somehow making room in our incredibly full stomachs and ordering a crème brûlée dessert. This was probably my favorite part, as this is my absolute favorite sweet. My boyfriend didn’t love it quite as much, but he also had never had crème brûlée before and wasn’t sure what exactly to expect.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the entire night. The service was top-notch, the food was all cooked to perfection, and the atmosphere and ambiance was both comforting and appealing. I’d definitely go here again if I’m looking for a more elegant dining experience.

 

Contact the author at chealy16@wou.edu

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