As the new Pulse editor, I would like to take a minute to sit back and savor the power I now possess. I can feed you whatever babble I want you to hear, and you will have to listen. This gives me a sense of self-satisfaction. The world will finally see my point of view, and everything will be right and good.
This may be exaggerating a bit, but I can at least provide new insights, right? Well, I can at least sit back and enjoy the springtime.
Spring term. Every University student’s motivation to get through the fall and winter. In my experiences of almost three years at the University, I have noticed that the entire mentality of the campus changes with the transition from winter; people smile more, are nicer to each other, and seem to multiply as they rush outdoors.
We now transition from the drudgery of classes for the past six months to the light at the end of the tunnel. Even with the unusually mild winter this year, there is still something invigorating about the sense of accomplishment after finishing more than half of the school year, and thoughts of swimsuits. It’s hard to return to class from the teaser of spring break, but it is somehow easier with the promise of outdoor activities and the fantasies of canceled class on a sunny day.
With all this yearned-for sun and greenery inevitably comes the occasional party. The chill attitude of spring undoubtedly is perfect for kicking back with some buds and Bud Lights. It is very fulfilling to sit on your porch/residence hall stoop/fraternity roof in the twilight after a sunny day with the refreshment of your choice and watch the stars come out. You are at total peace with the world. Ahh.
With that vision in mind, I want to do all that I can to aid you in your pursuit of the perfect spring term. So, I am providing a few concoctions that will send you along the way just fine.
Now remember everyone, alcohol is only for those over 21 years old. But don’t worry … I haven’t forgotten the youngsters. The last recipe is for any minors in the house. Enjoy.
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Margaritas:
(A classic and my personal favorite)
11 parts fresh squeezed lime juice (or sour mix)
1 part Cuervo Gold/Especial Tequila
1 part Triple Sec
Salt
Directions: Mix the three liquid ingredients in a shaker. Rub the rim of any size glass with a lime and then in a plate of salt. Pour the mix into the glass.
For frozen margaritas: Simply throw everything in a blender with ice and frozen limeade, and blend.
Sangria:
(A suggestion from Mason, Pulse reporter)
1/2 cup brandy
2 cups ginger ale or 7Up
1/3 cup frozen lemonade
1/3 cup orange juice
25 oz red wine
1/2 cup Triple Sec
Directions: Mix all ingredients except ginger ale or 7Up; refrigerate until chilled. Just before serving, stir in ginger ale. Garnish with fruit, if desired.
Orange Creamsicle:
(An invention of Aaron, the Emerald’s community editor)
1 oz vodka
1 oz vanilla schnapps
4 oz orange juice
1/2 oz cream
Directions: Pour vodka and schnapps over ice, and then add orange juice — stir. Float 1/2 oz cream and enjoy!
Sun Tea (non-alcoholic):
(my mom’s favorite)
3 family size tea bags or 9 regular size
1 gallon water
Directions: Put tea bags in a clean gallon jar and fill with cold water. (For an exciting change of taste, add different flavors, such as lemon, mint or passion fruit). Cap loosely and place in hot sunshine for 3 to 4 hours. Remove tea bags. Sweeten to taste and serve over ice. Refrigerate within 5 hours of brewing. Vary the number of tea bags and the duration of brewing according to the tea strength you desire.
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There are still a few drawbacks that keep me nailed to Earth in the springtime, but I will get over the occasional rainy day and the fact that I still actually have to go to class. As long as I have the promise of a sunny spot for studying on the grass, weekend camping trips, and some tasty beverages to carry me to the summertime.