Archive for the ‘onLove’ Category

« Older Entries
Newer Entries »

How to Manage Your Time For… Gaming?

Wednesday, June 15th, 2011

Can I go to class now, please?

PC gamers and console junkies alike can attest to not only the increasingly social nature of video games, but also the greater acceptance of gaming as a group activity since the first Xbox came with internet capability. While party games like Mario Kart were always popular and took advantage of the fact that people hanging out together required entertainment, classic and modern MMOs (massively multiplayer online games) like World of Warcraft and console games like Halo and Call of Duty call on people from all over the country and all walks of life to organize and play together. For college students, this means fitting gaming into a schedule, just like class or work, and keeping up with the demands of other players who might not be as busy, which can be difficult and frustrating. After all, no one wants to be left behind by his/her friends, even ones that are strictly online.

If you are getting into online gaming or have been gaming for years and are having trouble keeping up now that you’re in college, here are some tips to keep your head afloat in both work and play. Just like schoolwork, online game obligations can take up a lot of time, so it should be managed and incorporated into realistic schedules that don’t overlap with each other. For example, each semester, I look at my class schedule and syllabi and note which nights (or mornings, if you do your best work early in the day) that I know I will have something school-related to do, like weekly response papers that are due every Thursday and Calculus homework due every other Tuesday. Since it’s important to do assignments well and on time, Mondays and Wednesdays would be my days that I need a few hours just for studying.

Then I look at my gaming schedule. It might be weird to hear about someone having appointments for gaming, but when other players depend on you, it’s important to be on time for them like you’re on time for class (hopefully). If my clan/guild/group likes to play together from 9pm-12am on Wednesdays and Saturdays, I should make sure that whatever assignments I have to do on Wednesday gets done before 9. Many guilds on World of Warcraft raid in the middle of the week, so Sundays are great for doing all of the major assignments you know you won’t have time for on Tuesdays. Games that require load times or other periodic breaks are good for doing required reading though the frequent interruptions are less ideal for math or science problems or anything that requires an extended thought process.

When you’re having trouble managing your time because you procrastinate over deciding whether to play or write a paper, you may have to reassess your self-control. If doing work ahead of time isn’t a possibility because you don’t have the discipline, it might be a good idea to switch clans to one that plays only on the weekends, be involved with a smaller number of games, or play the games more casually, i.e. single-player instead of in a group. Despite wanting to prove to ourselves that we have the ability to do everything by sheer will power, it isn’t always realistic. Admitting one’s flaws and rearranging our schedules to account for procrastination is better than making idealistic plans and not getting the work done at all.

No matter how well you manage your time, finals week is always a difficult strain on your already packed schedule. But not everyone in your clan or guild is unemployed or a housewife, and it has always been my experience that when I take time off for finals, plenty of other players are doing the same, even guild leaders. Explain to them which days you will be missing and why. If it’s the kind of guild that requires 100% attendance, it isn’t a good fit for a student anyway since no matter how important your clan is, it’s not worth failing your classes for. Find a comfortable balance between your school and social gaming obligations, but always makes sure it tips a little to the school side.

And with all that time sitting at your computer or console, make sure to eat! Check out this awesome coupon for Whole Foods Market that lets you get all the ingredients for peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for some sweet gaming fuel at a discount.

-Avia Dell’Oste.

Check out my blog RP Your Life!

Get the great Student Discount I mentioned and more by clicking.

Download our NEW App on iTunes!
Become a fan on Facebook and follow us on twitter!
Sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter for student promotions and coupons and download the coupon booklet here!

Share

Posted in onEntertainment, Relationships, Studying | No Comments »

Going the Distance

Tuesday, June 14th, 2011

People didn’t start leaving me until I went to college. All my life people stayed close by. My older siblings all stayed within a twenty-mile radius for college and when it came for my friends and I to apply to college, we didn’t dare look beyond the tri-state area.

When I first got to college I was ecstatic to find out that my new friends and newly acquired boyfriend all lived within an hour of our school. My family would come and visit on a weekly basis and many of my friends were just a subway stop away for me; everything was going great. That is, until sophomore year. Mallori, my best friend since I was 8 years old, decided to study abroad. She wanted to go to Ireland for an entire semester to be exposed to another culture.

“But what about your family, Mal?” I asked.

Really, what I was trying to say was “what about me?!” I personally didn’t have what it took to live in another country, let alone live outside New York, (I have what they call, “fear of leaving the island”) and to see her go was hard. That semester, instead of going down into the city to meet and go out at night, we had Skype and calling cards on hand for emergency girl talks.

When she came back, I thought I was in the clear. I had the summer going into junior year with everyone home to keep me company. But that summer as my boyfriend and I became closer, he let me in on a little secret; he had decided to study abroad in Brazil for spring semester. At first it was okay, we had a few months left together and when he left, we would make it work… I hoped. I mean, a friendship could easily survive separation, but a relationship? Even on the day his plane took off, I wasn’t sure we’d make it. And as the days went on, it only became harder and harder. I suddenly realized I had to act like a taken girl but I was always alone. I had the commitment, but none of the perks of a relationship. No handholding, no kisses, no napping together—no nothing. That semester I hardly went out. My mindset was to just get to class, get all my homework done and get to bed at a decent hour. My two roommates, who were both in relationships, would try to include me and keep me occupied, but it always ended up making me feel sourer. They were constantly pushing me to go out with them at night but it was a rare occasion when I actually did. I hated the end of the night too much. My roommates would all go to their boyfriends’ apartments and I would do a lonely walk back to our dorm room.  There were many nights I would be alone and cry in my bed listening to the commotion of students laughing and flirting and having the kind of night I had to wait four more months for.

But it got better.

One day it dawned on me that I was the one causing my own unhappiness and maybe this separation could be viewed as a good thing instead of a bad one. And with that revelation, everything changed. A whole new part of my life emerged. I began socializing and making friends with people I normally wouldn’t have time for, I met with teachers and excelled in class, I worked on my writing and made time for new hobbies and even got this internship at the Campus Clipper! I was happy and felt content with myself. I realized that there was no reason to fear leaving or being left behind. New York is an amazing city—no doubt about that—but if an opportunity came where I would have to leave, it would be okay to go. College pulls people physically apart from each other; but that doesn’t mean you have to become estranged from one another! Even if you aren’t a quick drive from each other, you are still just a call or an email away. When you really care and love people, a little distance is healthy and can make you value them more than you have before. Now that my boyfriend is home, our relationship is stronger then ever.  Our time with each other is precious but we make sure to make time for ourselves and other parts of our lives. It’s important to remember that if you’re far away from home or someone you’re close with leaves for a college that’s far away, remember that yes, the distance is hard, but they can always come and visit! You’re in New York City! They can come stay at the Blue Moon Hotel that’s right between Little Italy and SOHO and spend your days running around the city together (you couldn’t ask for a better excuse to do all the touristy stuff).  It’s important to feel grounded not by where you are but by what you do, and to remember that life always gets better if you give yourself the chance to grow.

Jackie Aqel

Get some great  Student Discounts right now!
Download our NEW App on iTunes!
Become a fan on Facebook and follow us on twitter!
Don’t forget to sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter for student promotions and coupons and download the coupon booklet NOW

Share

Posted in Friendship, onLove, onValues | No Comments »

Hello, I Love You, Won’t You Tell Me Your Name?

Thursday, March 3rd, 2011

Photo thanks to Ajaytheonly.blogspot.com

The French expression for falling in love translates to “falling into apples,” which I correlate to sweet, but painful. Dropping the “L” bomb is a bit of a sticky situation. There are the blurters, the stagers, the first daters, the long termers, the constant reminders, the special occasioners, the whisperers, the shout it from the roof topers, whatever you’re style, the tricky part is figuring out whether your beau shares your sentiments or not. If one of you feels it first, it’s not the end of the world, nor is it necessarily the end of the relationship, but if you have to get it out there here are some pointers for not overwhelming (or underwhelming) your significant other.

You’re Ready, They’re Not: You’re most likely in a terrified state, with a candy coat of bubbling excitement. Hold onto that, don’t let it fester and rot the roots of your courtship. If you’re certain that your beau isn’t in the same place, feel them out a bit. If you’ve been dating for more than four months, and they’re still a bit frigid toward the idea of professing statements of affection, it’s okay to say it as long as you preface the statement with something along the lines of, “You don’t have to say it back, I just need to tell you how I feel.” This will give them the out, relieving a little pressure. A wedge can be stuffed between you if you push the idea too much. I know, it’s taxing, but if you care about the person (well, you say you love them) you should be considerate of where they are in the relationship. Not everyone moves at the same pace. Maybe they need more time to get there, they mean serious business when they say it, or maybe they’ve been badly burned in the past. Sometimes the people who are reluctant to love are so because of a painful past.  Give them time. Don’t use breaking up as an ultimatum, because then you’re pushing them to leave you when they want to stay, or they’re saying something they don’t mean because they’re afraid to lose you. Granted, losing you may snap them into realizing something, but that’s not fair, that’s making the relationship a game.

Signs They’re Not Ready: You gaze at them lovingly, they look away. You make plans for the future; they make plans for dinner instead. Holding hands, even when you’re alone is a no-no. If you’re not in bed, there’s no affection. Take these as subtle hits, and to use the oh-so-popular phrase: maybe they’re just not that into you.

Signs They’re Ready: Take the situations above and reverse them.

They Said It, You Didn’t: You haven’t been together that long, this is your first date, or you’re just not feeling it, but you’re happy in the relationship so far. The first point should be that if you’re just in it to be in a relationship (you know who you are), that’s fine, but when the other person is serious about a long term commitment and you’re not, you need to let them know. It won’t get better, they won’t learn to feel less or make it more casual. Once they have the heart throb, it’s only going to end in pain, so don’t augment this by dangling a carrot in front of them. Remind them of how wonderful they are, how undeserving you are, and break it off nice and clean.

If you think that you may feel this way, just not yet, explain this to them. You can do this without being harsh. Explain your sentiments, but don’t give reasons for why you don’t love them yet. This can be used against you for the entirety of your relationship. Every fight will be about this, even if it’s masked as something else.

First Times That Don’t Count:

– After being intimate, during, or before. After you’ve already said it, go ahead and shout it at the top of your lungs (or whisper loudly if you have roommates), but don’t say it for the first time in while snuggling with your honey. 

– As a form of apology. If you’re in the middle of a fight, unless it’s due to a romantic comedy-esque misunderstanding, this kills the sentiment. If you did something to cause pain, grief, or anger, don’t pull the L-card to get yourself out of the dog house. This taints it, makes it jaded.

Saying it: Think about it this way: after the excitement, shock, what have you, of the sacred words, they’re going to tell their friends, especially the ladies. Do you really want them to have to explain that you said it to get out of trouble, or in an inappropriate moment? My personal recommendation is to say it when you feel it. It will mean that much more if you’re in the moment, not in some rehearsed set up. Sure, flowers and violins are nice, but they amp up the anxiety and create a sensation of false sentiments. This isn’t Hollywood. If you’re brushing you’re teeth together one morning, or they pick up a treat for you just because, and you feel a rushing sensation, tell them. You can tell when someone really means it when they’re in the moment.

Alternatives to Love: Neither of you is ready for the commitment that accompanies saying I love you, but you still have strong feelings for one another. Use these carefully, as they can irritate if the other person has said I Love You and you respond with a luke warm declaration.

-I adore you (see Stranger Than Fiction)

-I covet you

-You’re my happy thought

– I’m crazy about you

– I think you’re the greatest thing since the wheel (make up your own)

– I’m so glad you exist

Love is a wonderful thing, and once you get the words out you can say it almost whenever you want. There is also a sweetness to the period before you express this, a time when the tension of affection, of the unsaid words, is palpable and being together creates an electrical charge of potential energy. Savor the beginning, people, don’t push it. You’ll get to the next stage, but remember that you’ll never have a beginning with this person again, so quit chomping at the bit. If you’re going to say it, think carefully and tread cautiously.

Written by Ashley Teal, Campus Clipper Blogger

See my blog:  amteal.tumblr.com or twitter @amteal

Blow off some pent up emotions at Synergy

Get great more Student Discounts!

Download our NEW App on iTunes!
Become a fan on Facebook and follow us on twitter!

Don’t forget to sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter for student promotions and coupons and download the coupon booklet NOW

Share

Tags:, , ,
Posted in onLove, onValues, Relationships | No Comments »

Keeping in the Know is Tweet

Thursday, February 17th, 2011

There are a number of medical and psychological studies that tell us how helpful our pets are. Sure, you may not consider your dog eating a new pair of shoes and drooling on your pillowcase while you’re at work to be beneficial, but they will make you live longer. While most dogs aren’t the Lassie type, I know mine is afraid of boxes, tape, the vacuum, broom, mop, crinkly bags, the iron, plates, and a variety of nonsensical household paraphernalia, but studies show that they lower blood pressure and pet owners tend to live longer than non pet owners. This isn’t why most people decide to get a pet, but it’s a definite perk. Even a fish, however small and seemingly insignificant, can feel like company in an empty apartment.

We dog lovers tend to border on obsession. I know that my fiancé and I have to check ourselves on how much we talk about the dog (our spunky Husky mix, Hera) to our friends. Being away from home for twelve hours a day sometimes, I have to say I miss her terribly. When I get home, she has been fed, walked, and is now passed out by the front door waiting for my arrival. I hate missing out on all the daytime fun. Maybe the best way to quench this dropsy like thirst is to attach Mattel’s recent seller, the Radica Puppy Tweets.

Puppy Tweets is a water resistant, motion detecting key chain like device that attaches to your dog’s collar and transmits to a USB device you plug in to your computer. Set up a twitter account for your dog with the device, and it will draw from a database of responses (albeit sometimes hokey) that correlate to your dog’s movement, or lack thereof. Check it from your computer at work, or follow your dog on your smart phone’s twitter app.

If you can’t have a pet, due to dorm living, a cranky landlord, or an allergic spouse, or a lack of funds, you can always log on to watch a few of the constantly streaming puppy cams. These are surprisingly popular, and reduce stress and anxiety for quite a large population. So, if you’re having a bad day and can’t make it to a local shelter to pick up some puppies, why not log on to streaming puppies all day!

Written by Ashley Teal, Campus Clipper Blogger

Visit My Blog and follow me on Twitter!

Also Check Out Great Campus Clipper Student Discounts!

Download our NEW App on iTunes.
Become a fan on Facebook and follow us on twitter and watch our YouTube videos.

Don’t forget to sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter for student promotions and coupons and download the coupon booklet NOW.

Share

Tags:, , , ,
Posted in onLove, onValues | No Comments »

MAN TESTED, LADY APPROVED

Thursday, February 10th, 2011

Agreeing on a flick for a night at home shouldn’t be a terribly difficult decision for most couples, but sometimes a girl needs a little warm and fuzzy happy ending romantic comedy and no amount of rhetoric can make a guy settle down to some tear filled giggles. Then, there are the guys who agree to a chick flick and suffer through ninety minutes of watch checking and sighing, waiting to cash in their newly earned brownie points. Ladies, take it easy on them, and especially with Valentine’s Day around the corner.

Here’s a list of chick flicks, man tested, ladies approve:

Knocked Up: It’s criminal to have never seen this flick, or not to find it a source of quotable, comedic material. Seth Rogan and Katherine Heigl play a pair whose one night stand ends in conception and begins a whirl wind relationship where, like their child, everything is unplanned. Warning: may temporarily kill libido, best watched with committed partner.

Breakfast at Tiffany’s: Guys, don’t write this one off just because it’s got Audrey Hepburn in it. This is a staple in everyone’s film diet, and should not be ignored due to media attention and age. Nothing blows up, but this Truman Capote adaptation involves two escorts, Holly Golightly and Paul Varjak, jaded and living in New York, avoiding love and trying to make it. The score is amazing, and once you hear it, you’ll notice it popping up everywhere, even in Minority Report. If you have to choose between Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Casablanca, for a movie night, Breakfast at Tiffany’s is the more lighthearted choice.

Going the Distance: Don’t let the cover deceive you! The case for this flick looks like a made for TV movie, but it’s nothing if not brilliant. This star studded cast includes Drew Barrymore (on her A game), Justin Long, Charlie Day (Always Sunny in Philadelphia), Jason Sudeikis (30 Rock), Christina Applegate, & Jim Gaffigan. Barrymore and Long play a couple attempting a long distance relationship from New York to San Francisco. While the plot is easily identifiable, the candid conversations will keep you, and your beau, stifling laughter so you can hear the next line. I would easily label this as the best romantic comedy of 2010, hands down.

When Harry Met Sally: This is another must see for all movie goers. If you haven’t seen it yet, you’ll recognize a lot of other films imitating this one, monumental chick flick. From writer Nora Ephron (You’ve Got Mail, Sleepless in Seattle, Julie & Julia, etc), the queen of romantic comedies, is the story of a twenty year friendship that tackles the crux: can men and women be just friends? Be wary of the debates this will bring up, as it’s known to cause an argument or twenty, but if you take it with a grain of salt, this one is sure to keep you giggling.

Life as We Know it: This Katherine Heigl film takes off in the comedic department where Knocked Up left off. An unlikely pair are given custody of their mutual friend’s child after the couple passes away and they struggle to find where they fit into their new lives. This one is smart, funny, and on the girlier side, so choose wisely. Ladies, be prepared to shed a few tears in front of your movie partner.

If you and your other half are tight on cash, why not pick up some take out and rent a movie for Valentine’s Day? Keep things light, funny, and romantic with one of the choices above, and take it easy on the fiscal expectations.

Written by Ashley Teal, Campus Clipper Blogger

Visit My Blog and follow me on Twitter!

Also Check Out Great Campus Clipper Student Discounts!

Download our NEW App on iTunes.
Become a fan on Facebook and follow us on twitter and watch our YouTube videos.

Don’t forget to sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter for student promotions and coupons and download the coupon booklet NOW.

For some awesome take-out coupons see:

Bare Burger

Boyd Thai

Tahini

Share

Tags:, , ,
Posted in onEntertainment, onFood, onLove, onSavings, Relationships | No Comments »

RED DELICIOUS NEW YORK

Tuesday, February 8th, 2011

Photo Thanks to Soda Head

It seems strange to say, but I love the smell of New York City. Most people complain of its filth, its odd, rusty, wet scent, but I happen to love the unique fragrance of the robust little island. Okay, so there is the occasional rancid trash bag or the urine stench coated individual on the subway, but despite the wet weather and commute sweat, New Yorkers still know how to keep it fresh.

I’m thrilled when I find myself in the wake of someone’s cologne or perfume, but we must remember to remain conscious of others’ nasal sensitivities. A good way to avoid overwhelming people with your scent, while still smelling sweet, is to use a perfume oil, or essential oil. An essential oil will give you a radiating scent that increases with your body temperature, but does not over power the senses like most spray scents.

Rub the oil on your wrists, behind your ears, in the crook of your elbow, and behind your knees. The great thing about the oil is that it spreads all day long, and will adhere to whatever you’re wearing, even if you change your outfit midday, and don’t worry, it doesn’t damage your clothing.

Another benefit to using oil instead of an alcohol infused spray is that you can reapply it in public places without causing everyone to choke and gag on the subway or in an elevator. Your scent can be better reserved for those who come in close contact with you, not just anyone on the street. This makes your skin, your touch, more alluring to a mate who can’t wait to get close to breathe in your aroma.

Some places will even let you create your own scents by combining different essential oils. Try The Fragrance Shop at 21st East 7th Street, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the number of affordable options. You can make your own unique scent, instead of using a generic, overpriced brand. Bring a friend and spend time trying new scents out, the people at The Fragrance Shop will be more than happy to help! They’re offering free incense for students when they bring a student ID, so stop by soon. Go on, New York, smell delicious.

Written by Ashley Teal, Campus Clipper Blogger

Visit My Blog and follow me on Twitter!

Also Check Out Great Campus Clipper Student Discounts!

Download our NEW App on iTunes.
Become a fan on Facebook and follow us on twitter and watch our YouTube videos.

Don’t forget to sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter for student promotions and coupons and download the coupon booklet NOW.

Share

Posted in onLove, Relationships, Uniqueness in NYC | No Comments »

BE ANNOYINGLY HAPPY

Tuesday, February 8th, 2011

Happiness, to me, was always a shiny yellow ball that, when I reached a certain point in my life, would descend upon me in an ethereal manner and consume all my fears. Well, that’s so untrue I don’t know where to begin. In matters of love and romance, happiness cannot be achieved between two people, no matter the compatibility of interests, unless each individual is independently happy.

How then, can you be happy if you don’t have everything you want, or even need? The answer is annoyingly simple: it’s not a matter of having what you want, but wanting what you have. This does not eliminate ambition, or instill placency, it simply stifles the all consuming self pity that can hinder one’s ability to achieve. Shiny, happy people do well in life, but how do you become one of those people?

Power of Food: If you pour sugar into the gas tank of a car, it doesn’t run, it clogs up the work and creates a mechanic’s nightmare. Now, imagine your body as a car, you put the wrong things in and you’ll get little in return. This doesn’t mean that you can’t have fats or sweets, but if you’re feeling lethargic and run down, the first instinct is to grab for the comfort foods. The fuzzy end of the lollipop is where you’ll find yourself in this situation, because that cheeseburger or candy bar will only dig you deeper into exhaustion. Find things that are healthy, but taste good. I always feel better after I eat a salad, but I don’t stick to low fat dressing with plain lettuce. I spice it up with crumbled goat cheese, craisins, chopped walnuts, and a variety of other cheeses, dried fruits, and nuts, and maybe some croutons or parmesan. Add flavor to your healthy foods, at least you’re eating a salad. I love to warm up pineapple and bananas in a frying pan and sprinkle them with cinnamon. You have to enjoy what you do and eat, because what’s the fun of being skinny and energetic if you constantly starve yourself?

Physical Fun: What ever happened to just running because it was fun? When was the last time your friend chased you through a park and it wasn’t because you slept with his girlfriend or stole his iPod? It’s a struggle to go out there and exercise if you’re not hard wired for it, but once you get on a roll, you might like it. The key is to find something that gets to excited, something that holds your attention. I like to box and to row. I can’t afford to row, so wherever I’m living I find a place that offers boxing. I recommend a private trainer for the first couple of times, and most places will offer some kind of deal. I’m often surprised that I pay someone to make me work until I feel like passing out, but I feel great after and my energy level goes through the roof. I have friends who play Frisbee, join soccer teams, jog, do pole dancing and strip tease classes, take dance lessons, and they all rave about how much more motivation they have when they exercise, they just had to find something to maintain their interest. Even if it’s watching TV while you work out, whatever does it.

Self-Hypnosis: Alright, I know this sounds crazy, but you can actually talk yourself into being happier. A lot of us are naturally inclined to find the negativity in a situation before they look to the positive. Here’s a little trick that’ll get you smiling more: when you walk into work in the morning, before you do anything, write down three things you’re grateful for. After fifteen days, you’ll start to see a significant improvement in your demeanor because you’re training your mind to naturally try to find positive things in your environment. This also works when you’re fighting with your hubby, sit down, breathe, and tell him or her three things about them that you’re grateful for. Verbalizing makes it more tangible. I like to list three things I’m grateful for before I go to sleep at night, out loud, and it helps calm me into a state where I can more easily fall asleep, and it prepares me for the morning. Mind over matter, just try it.

Healthy people are happy people, and happy people make great partners. Try a few of these tips, and maybe sit yourself down and ask what it is you want in life. Even if you know you want to be in better shape, have better skin, a better job, a new pair of sneakers, etc, verbalizing it will make it easier to visualize and eventually obtain. Trust yourself.

Written by Ashley Teal, Campus Clipper Blogger

Visit My Blog and follow me on Twitter!

Also Check Out Great Campus Clipper Student Discounts!

Download our NEW App on iTunes.
Become a fan on Facebook and follow us on twitter and watch our YouTube videos.

Don’t forget to sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter for student promotions and coupons and download the coupon booklet NOW.

Visit our recommended gyms:

Crunch

 

Share

Posted in Eating Healthy, onEntertainment, onFood, onHealth, onValues, Relationships | No Comments »

First Dates: Let it be

Thursday, February 3rd, 2011

Remember the “dating” habits of junior high? Do you like me? Check yes; check no. There was no dating, simply a quick glance from across the room and zip bam boom the two of you are all wet puppy eyes and picking out fine china. Later on, things got a little more complicated and I’m not quite sure what did it. Broken hearts, realism, cynicism, or maybe residual scarring from that fifth grade beau that never shared his PB & J. Occasionally two friends get together after a long time of “hanging out” or that one night stand turns out to be the real thing and nothing like its original shape, but for the most part we have to date. Dating is a wonderful thing, resembling a sort of salad bar. With no commitment, a clean slate, and a night out, there’s nothing to lose. Here are some fun (and hopefully helpful) little tips for a first date:

Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy: You’re most likely going to date a lot, and I highly recommend it, before you even settle into a committed relationship, so take it easy on the first date. Don’t try so hard to impress or to tell your date every tiny detail about yourself. The great thing about getting to know someone is, well, getting to know someone. All the small surprises are the fizzy bubbles that swim up your nose when you drink a soda, so don’t gulp it all down- you’re almost certain to get sick. Try not to summarize yourself, they need to form their own opinion of you; they’d rather read the novel than get the cliff notes. Instead, talk about things you enjoy, things you have in common, or even something quirky that pops into your mind. Breathe, and keep things simple. Don’t begin with the Spanish inquisition, it was uncomfortable in the fifteenth century, and that hasn’t changed. You should be interested in your date, curious about them, but you’re not conducting a job interview.

Forever: This is a first date, repeat that to yourself every time you begin imagining how he’ll look in a tuxedo or if your mother will like him. This isn’t a habit for all of us, but I’ve encountered a large number of friends, worsening with age, that try to map out their relationship early on and it almost always ends up in tears and Haagen-Dazs. I once had a friend imagine the eulogy he would deliver at her funeral after having been married for forty years (after a first date); it ended in sweatpants for a week and boxes of raw brownie batter.

Don’t expect everything to be perfect, and don’t expect a commitment, just enjoy your time together. Think of it as only happening for one night, plan on never seeing this person again, and if it works, it works, if not, you can be thankful for the good time or relish in the relief of never having to see them again.

Liar, Liar: How many times have you caught yourself saying something that you know is a grandiose embellishment or not even remotely true  to someone you just met? This is a time when honesty is the best policy. If you didn’t climb Everest, save a baby from a burning building, or attend Yale, don’t say you did. It’s true, you may never see this person again, but I’m a firm believer in the universe’s sense of humor, and a liar is the prime source of entertainment for the powers that be. If you do end up in a relationship, how embarrassing is it to be caught when they realize that you don’t spend much time working out like an Olympic athlete should. Be you, because if they don’t like who you are, do you want to be in a relationship with them? There is no amount of rhetoric that should make you be a different person.

Mind Your P’s & Q’s: This seems like an obvious tip, but a lack of manners is the culprit in most bad dates. Unless you’re at a restaurant where the culture requires eating with one’s hands, use utensils. Gentleman, you don’t have to throw your coat over a puddle or offer grand (sometimes terrifying) gestures, just open a door or two. Also, a guiding hand on the small of her back is a risk, but sometimes a real winner. Ladies, smile! Don’t be the dining dead, offer those ivories up as part of the package, because smiling releases endorphins and it’ll boost your good time vibes. If you eat in a restaurant, be nice to your server. Yes, they signed up to wait on people, but they did not sign up to deal with condescending jack wagons all night. These are general rules that should apply to every day, but for the people out there not utilizing them, try starting with a first date.

Most importantly, remember to have a good time! Make fun plans, because going on a date is the best excuse to do something exciting. In a relationship, you have to enjoy doing things together, and an active date can sometimes be the best way to limit verbal diarrhea. Love isn’t all drama, it’s predominately giggles, so go out and get yourself some laughing fits.

Written by Ashley Teal, Campus Clipper Blogger

Visit My Blog and follow me on Twitter!

Also Check Out Great Campus Clipper Student Discounts!

Download our NEW App on iTunes.
Become a fan on Facebook and follow us on twitter and watch our YouTube videos.

Don’t forget to sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter for student promotions and coupons and download the coupon booklet NOW.

Share

Posted in onLove, onValues, Relationships | No Comments »

Date Night: Round II

Thursday, January 27th, 2011

Dating protocol often assumes a rigorous adherence to behavioral standards or manners that may preclude yourself from acting as naturally as you normally would—to be as non-confrontational or offensive as possible. Well, for those who have less concern about inhibitions or have reached a level of comfort in their relationship in which making a total fool of yourself is endearing, I recommend spending an evening with your guy or gal at any of Karaoke Boho’s three locations throughout the city. What could be more flattering and romantic than belting out ballads to your babe in a key normally reserved for some kind of primal mating ritual? Or, take on a duet and share the mutual humiliation of singing classic pop songs out of tune. Either way, you’ll be singing when you take advantage of Karaoke Boho’s great student discounts.

If singing is not something you are interested in, consider heading over to Fat Cat (75 Christopher St. at 7th Ave.) for nightly live music, pool, pong, shuffleboard, and an assortment of board games to challenge your date to. A little friendly competition is a great way to break the ice and what better game is there to do so than pool. Whether you choose to shoot classic 8 or 9-ball games, Fat Cat has an exclusive deal for students. With any hour of pool purchased, you get one free hour! All you have to do is show up with your student ID and Campus Clipper coupon. Next thing you know you’ll be designing signature trick shots to impress your date.

Whether you are hoarse from “singing,” or simply famished from a few intense games of bar sports, why not finish off the evening with a late dinner at Boyd Thai (210 Thompson St.). A personal favorite, Boyd Thai offers a 15% student discount on dinner from 4PM-close, so you won’t be limited to an “early bird special” crowd. All you need to do is show your student ID. Enjoy the magnificent fusion-style cuisine and recount on the happenings of the evening over a bottle of sake and the warm, comforting ambiance.

Click  Here For Coupons:

Karoke Boho

Fat Cat

Derek Parsons

donotmindifido.tumblr.com

Be sure to check back next week for A Prelude to V-Day…

Share

Posted in onLove, onValues, Out On The Town | No Comments »

How to Make Love Stay

Thursday, January 27th, 2011

The one to two year period of a relationship is the time in which you start to get into what I call the meat of it. Any facades that you had in the beginning have dissipated; you’ve seen the gritty and the real, and obviously you like what you’ve seen so far, otherwise there’d be a hole in the wall shaped like you or your beau followed by a settling cloud of dust. You know your other half’s tics, quirks, phobias, and the whole kit and caboodle. This is the point where you don’t know everything, there are always little (and sometimes not so little) surprises, but you feel like you do. This is the meat. This is what everyone was always talking about when they said that relationships are work. When your grandmother was cross stitching pillow cases (or, like mine, gambling in Vegas), and she looked at you over her glasses (or poker chips) and furrowed her brows at your gushing affections for some guy you just met, this is what she was waiting for.

Relationships are work, but the work is one of the best parts. You have to enjoy the ride, because there is no destination. Here are a few tips for relationship maintenance:

Say Thank You: It’s all about the little things. Big gestures are nice, as are the warm and fuzzy declarations of love that happen every now and again, but it’s the little day to day recognitions that keep you from taking advantage of each other. Just remembering to say thank you for the things they do for you is as important as doing things for them. Say thank you for taking the trash out, doing the dishes, making the bed, walking the dog, making dinner, or easing your troubles after a rough day. You don’t have to press your forehead to the floor in a bow of thanks, it can even be in passing, just say it. Verbalizing thanks also reminds you of how much they do for you, it’ll keep you out of the ‘I do everything’ mentality that everyone gets wrapped up in from time to time.

Thoughtful Purchases: You have to buy your one and only a present on their birthday, holidays, anniversaries, and Valentine’s Day. What about every other day of the year? A bouquet of flowers ‘just because’ is a winning gesture, but there are other things that will make your significant other gush at your sweetness and earn you a few extra brownie points. If they’re an avid reader, pick up a book that you heard about or saw in a book review that you think they might like. Even if they don’t like it, they’ll like the idea of it. A box of sweets from a bakery your co-worker raves about, a trinket from China Town, their favorite appetizer from a local restaurant, or anything you see in your daily travels that you think they might enjoy. If you’re strapped for cash, they will understand, so even mentioning that you saw something they’d love in a store window will remind them how much you care. You don’t have to go over the top every day, that’s overwhelming for both parties, but let them know that you’re thinking of them with small gifts. This little tip works for all types of relationships from romantic, to platonic, to familial.

Time Apart is Time Together: When we hear of good relationships, ones that people are often envious of, the line “they do everything together” is almost always used. This is a fallacy. Healthy relationships are kept by each person having their own time. I like to think that the phrase “absence makes the heart grow fonder” is not referring to separate vacations, long business trips, or long distance, but the time couples spend apart on a regular basis. It’s important to share a lot of common interests and hobbies, but sharing everything will certainly wear down the enamel of any relationship. Make time for your friends, for taking walks on your own, classes, or spending time doing something you want to do alone. You should also remember that your mate has friends and activities he or she would like to do alone. Don’t gripe over “girl time” or “guy time,” but relish the time they’re away from you to do your own thing. A glass of wine and a good book go a long way in a bustling city, especially when you’re sharing a matchbox sized apartment with another person (or 5). Every week you should make time for yourself and your friends, and then set up a time to spend together. A walk through Coney Island, an intimate dinner, an indie flick, or renting a movie and ordering Chinese are great things to do together, and you’ll have a lot to talk about because you haven’t spent every waking moment together. Conversations grow stale and quiet in even the best relationships. How can you have anything to talk about if you haven’t been apart to experience new things?

You do maintenance on nearly everything you own: your computer, car, apartment, shoes, clothing, phone, so why would you neglect the most important thing? Your relationship is a living, breathing thing that you and your significant other create, so treat it with a little courtesy and keep it healthy.

Written, with love, by Ashley Teal

Bring home something sweet. or bring your sweet to a treat from Dessert House

Share

Posted in onFood, onLove, onValues, Relationships | No Comments »

« Older Entries
Newer Entries »