My Favorite TV Show: The Golden Girls

by Jenna Khakoo


As we return to our hometowns for the holidays, we are reminded of the simple luxuries the come with living at home. In my case, a fully stocked fridge, real food, my cat, walls that are semi-soundproof, my car, the list goes on. One thing that is a particular at-home treat: real television.

Throughout my college experience — I’m on my third year, I’ve lived comfortably without TV because I have the Gift of Netflix — Shoutout 1X to my dad. While Netflix supplies me with endless bad movies and old television shows that I didn’t even know I wanted to watch (example: Gossip Girl), it lacks probably the most important show of all time. That’s right, I mean The Golden Girls. 

  

The Golden Girls came into my life the same way most of my illiterate-sounding, millennial slang. I heard about it. Thought it was funny. Tried watching it almost ironically. It became a normalcy in my life. Can’t stop, won’t stop. 

Like all shows, it takes getting to know these characters to truly appreciate the fabulousness that is Blanche, Sophia, Dorothy and Rose (from left to right). So let me give you a quick lowdown on who these women are. 

Blanche Devereaux:

You could say Blanche is the “Flirty One.” She frequently goes on dates with men, is vain in her appearance and quite sexually liberated. She’s also famous for lying about her age. What’s really dope about this (there’s that illiterate slang) is that a show made in the 1980s about four old ladies freely discusses sex from a female perspective in a positive way. Sure, Sophia calls Blanche a prostitute a few times, but it’s all in good nature. Blanche was the OG reclaimer of the word “slut.” 

Sophia Petrillo: 

“Picture it (date) (location) (ridiculous story about Sophia’s life).’ This is Sophia’s catchphrase. Although the oldest Golden Girl, she’s Dorothy’s mom, she’s probably the spunkiest. Sophia has a knack for insults, and she lacks a censor. Sophia's superlative would probably be the “Funny One.” However, she’s definitely the maternal figure of the show. 

Dorothy Zbornak: 

Full of endless wit and sarcasm, Dorothy is the “Smart One” or the “Sensible One.” She’s definitely more down-to-earth, but if you think this means she doesn’t get into some crazy shenanigans, then you’re wrong! Dorothy is funny, loving and so supportive of her roommates. Also, her glares are legendary.

Rose Nylund: 

Ah, Rose, my favorite wildcard. Rose commonly tells bizarre stories about her childhood in a town called St. Olaf, Minnesota. She’s simple, and humorous and kind-hearted. Rose doesn’t always get it, which makes her the recipient of many sarcastic comments and annoyed glares. But, nothing really brings her down. I think we can all relate to this. College continually gets me down, but here I am, still kicking (everything’s fine). Rose is full of surprising stories, talents and experiences. 

Some other notable things about my favorite TV show. 

The list goes on...

1. It was written by a woman about women for women
2. It’s won a few Emmy’s, as has each of the show’s stars
3. Estelle Getty is younger than Bea Arthur, who plays her on-screen daughter 
4. The show actually deals with some pretty heavy/relevant issues, like AIDS, homelessness, race, death and sexuality. All of these being pretty taboo for the mid-1980s (and even today…).
5. The show embraced aging, and showed real, older women. It’s pretty rare to see old women characters whose purpose isn’t “loving grandmother” or “senile old lady.” These women are complete, complex and well-written. 

I could ramble on about The Golden Girls for hours, but in closing, this is a show about friendship. It’s about four women who have created a family filled with love and support (Yo, Texas Spirits does this sound familiar!!!). The Golden Girls is a show about women supporting women, and I’m so here for it. 

You can catch my favorite ladies on the Hallmark Channel sometime after 10:00 p.m. 

Espresso Yourself

by Mallory Miller

Productivity and comfort fuse together. What does that infusion sound like? It sounds like the loud roar of coffee grinding, the hiss of milk foaming, and the perpetual announcement of names over soft music.  Your favorite coffee shop: where you go to get it done. 

In the seconds that pass from your arrival at the cash register to the statement of your final answer, a series of events unfold in quick succession. While you scan the menu, your mind bouncing through the options and finally landing on a suitable compromise, the barista assesses your appearance and develops an internal guess based on that impression.

Pause at the moment you make eye contact over the cash register. You’re inhaling as you prepare to express your decision and the barista—slightly inclining toward you in anticipation—watches you with focused attention. So, what do you say?  And, more importantly, what does it say about you? 

Dr. Ramani Durvasula conducted a survey of 1,000 people. The study looked into personality styles, psychological traits, and the coffee preferences. What did the survey reveal? Browse some of Durvasula’s observations below to see what your order might say about you. 

Black Coffee

If you prefer a basic hot cup of Joe and don’t bother with the silliness of condiments, you may be a minimalist. It is likely that you are efficient, patient, and simple. However, you may also be moody, abrupt, dismissive, and resistant to change. There are pros and cons to the simple life.

Latte

This order could reveal your desire for other people to like you a latte. The survey concluded that latte drinkers seek comfort and are generous with their time. They can get over-extended in their efforts to help others.

Frozen/Blended Coffee Drinks

If you take your coffee with ice, sugar, cream—actually, if you prefer coffee to be in a form that resembles ice cream as closely as possible, you may be a socially bold, imaginative and spontaneous trendsetter. However, you may choose shortcuts frequently or make reckless decisions.

Decaf/Soy Milk/Very Specifically Ordered Coffee

Does a grande, quad, nonfat, no-whip mocha sound more like your order? Or perhaps an iced, half caff, ristretto, venti, 4-Pump, sugar free, cinnamon, dolce soy skinny latte strikes your fancy. You may be a little obsessive and have difficulty releasing control to others. However, you may also be very health-conscious and think through your choices thoroughly. 

So, where do you fall in the spectrum of coffee personalities? 

Waters, Emily. "What Does Your Coffee Reveal about You? | World of Psychology." World of Psychology. Psychcentral.com, 06 Aug. 2015. Web. 29 Nov. 2016

Winter in Austin - Fun Things to Do

by Alison Ryu

Luckily for us, winters in Austin are relatively mild - not too cold (it’s still T-shirt weather!) and the perfect time to get out and enjoy what our city has to offer. Here are some fun things to do this winter!

1. Mozart’s Christmas Light Show 

If you haven’t been to this yet, you should definitely go this year. The light show runs all the way up until the first week of January. Sip on a nice cup of coffee (bottomless, obviously) and enjoy this free entertainment!

2. Roast s’mores at Halcyon 

Get warm and cozy by the fire at Halcyon! Grab your friends and enjoy some indoor s’mores at this hip, Austin-y lounge downtown. Address: 218 W 4th St, Austin, TX 7870

3. Watch a movie at Alamo Drafthouse 

Delicious food and a movie? Alamo Drafthouse has ‘em both! This is a step above your average movie theatre, so treat yourself to a fun day with your friends.


4. Spend a few hours at BookPeople 

I went here for the first time a couple days ago, and it’s such a cute spot! Pick out a new book and then check out their coffee shop. They have a Christmas tea latte that tastes like everything good about the holidays. Camp out here and enjoy a nice afternoon relaxing. 

5.Ice skate on the plaza 

This starts up in early December, and makes for a fun day with friends! You can ice skate at Whole Foods on Lamar from 10am to 9pm and enjoy the beautiful downtown view. 

TOP CHEF: HOLIDAY EDITION

by Aashima Garg

Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday of the year. Why? Because my family does thanksgiving like no other. Because I am a first generation Indian American, most of my biological family resides in India. But, that’s never put a damper on our Thanksgiving celebrations. My family celebrates Thanksgiving with our fifty closest friends in Dallas.

Every year, we head over to a family friend’s house where we are welcomed by the most wonderful aroma of freshly prepared turkey, stuffing, pasta, mashed potatoes, and gravy. While my Aunt’s cooking is absolutely unparalleled and her pasta salad is incredibly hard to top, the best part of the meal, in my opinion, is the potluck dessert.

Over the course of many Thanksgiving meals, I’ve consolidated my top 10 holiday favorites.

10. Brownies and More Truffle Pops

No reviews

1 hour and 25 minutes

9. S’mores Bars

4 stars (279 reviews)

55 minutes

8. Caramel Apples

4.5 stars (181 reviews)

25 minutes

7. Peppermint Bark

5 stars (242 reviews)

1 hour

6. Apple Pie Bites

4.7 stars (32 reviews)

27 minutes

5. Chocolate Chip Lava Cookies

No reviews

no est. time

4. 7 Layer Red Velvet Bar

3 hours

3. Strawberry Short Cake

4.5 stars (445 reviews)

1 hour 10 minutes

2. Sticky Date Pudding

5 stars (330 reviews)

1 hour 50 minutes

1. Pumpkin Pie (DUH!)

4.5 stars (1729 reviews) (WOW!)

1 hour 10 minutes

**DON’T forget the whipped cream ☺

Hope you all enjoy my special treat list! If you make any of these treats (or any other cool ones you’d like us to feature in the future), tag @TexasSpirits on Instagram! Happy baking and happy holidays, homies.

XOXO,

Aashima

Tap In Fall 2016

by Masha Aseeva

On Wednesday, September 21, 2016, the Fall 2016 weenie class of Texas Spirits was tapped in. Little did they know, their lives just changed in the most positive and transformative way. Just a year before, I was tapped in to Texas Spirits in the Fall '15 weenie class. Tap In is a small part of the scope of traditions that date back 75 years, but it's definitely a great start. That day, I encountered 25 other girls that would end up shaping my life, be it a small prod into my character or a robust squeeze that altered my form forever. 25 strangers, 25 doors that hadn't been opened yet were beckoning me to come closer. In fact, there weren't 25- there were over 100 open doors of others who had been chosen just like me. The value of Tap In, and the organization in general, is that we select Spirits and what Spirits represents; we select ourselves. The scarf represents more than an outfit upgrade, or even Longhorn spirit (though we do it best). It represents game-changers. Girls that will change the world, that go the extra mile, that will support you in your hardest times. If it seems like most people are surface level, you won't find that in Spirits. We're definitely adept at small talk, but there is a deep passion and connection in what we talk about. The things that give life spark and vigor are in these girls. 

Masha at Fall 2015 Tap-In

Last year, after being flooded with information and tasks on what I would have to do at the onset of Weenie semester, I went to a Ratatat concert, alone, and danced my heinie off despite everything else looming over me. Spirits has been and always will be a support system; not something to sacrifice myself for, but rather a method to truly find and cultivate my own uniquity. The support and community that I found on that first day was so uplifting, and I was thriving off of it. A year later, right after Tap In Fall 2016, I went to a Beirut concert by myself. I danced through any pain of running around all day, but most importantly, I was secure in myself. Nothing had changed, yet so much also did. I still love music so much to go to shows alone. But now, throughout my waking world, I feel the support that Spirits has given me. I've only known Fall '15 for a year! A year of friendship. So short, yet so full. I cannot imagine what another year will bring. I cannot understate the value of community; the support that comes with knowing that you are loved no matter what, that you are a part of something bigger. That you are here to be YOU, and nobody else. Also, a weenie from the Fall '16 class was at the show as well (arrived alone but found people) and I had no idea! 

You are comprised of who you surround yourself with. In this sense, you must choose wisely. Be strong in your convictions and passions, for they make you who you are. You never know, those ideals might just make you a Spirit. #unapologeticallyYourself

Introducing Fall '16...

On Wednesday September 21st we welcomed 26 new members to our tradition. We are so excited for them to experience Weenie semester and embrace the traditions of Texas Spirits. Introducing the Fall 2016 weenie Class...

Adriel Morgan

Alison Ryu

Andrea Olvera

Andrea Yanez

Austin Strobel

Bridget Williams

Casey Paxman

Courtney Edgerton

Dorna Abdi

Emily Jilson

Hannah McMorris

Katherine Murphy

Katherine Pound

Katie Pavlas

Kavya Arvind

Lucy Browne

Maria Krychniak

Michaela Newman

Nat Watkins

Rachel Ogle

Sarah Hollis

Sarah Meeks

Stephanie Wang

Sydney Bartlett

Trisha Gupte

Victoria Hang

More Natural Remedies

By: Andrea Yazbeck

But wait… there’s more.

Spring has sprung! And that means gorgeous weather, lovely pops of color, and fresh air to go with that fresh complexion! With all the exams and events that are colliding at a time like this, who has time to spend on makeup? Today, I’m going to share with you five more organic ways to keep yourself feeling energetic, blooming and beautiful! So without further ado . . .

Vibrant Clay Mask and Good Vibez

This mask is unlike anything you’ve ever tried before. It calls for a special Aztec Clay powder ( that can be bought on Amazon) and Apple Cider Vinegar. What is “Aztec” clay? It’s otherwise known as Bentonite Clay, which basically pulls dirt, oil and other pollutants from the skin. While the bad stuff is leaving, the good stuff is doing it’s work, meaning minerals ( iron, calcium, sodium) diffuse into the skin. So why Apple Cider Vinegar and not water? It’s all in the pH. Apple Cider Vinegar has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. It is the only vinegar that is acidic yet has alkaline effects on the body ( we need a slightly alkaline pH to be healthy). Add equal parts of both and you’ll have a mask that not only will leave your skin clean, but also creates a pulsing sensation on the skin.

The vinegar smell can be a little overwhelming but trust me, in 15-20 minutes the difference will be overwhelming too:) Keep this mask on until it your face feels really tight! Make sure that you rinse with warm water and a gentle cleanser. And last but not least, moisturize with your organic oil of choice! Healing for the body and the soul, how could you go wrong?

Say Cheese :D

Oil pulling? What’s that !? You may have heard of this kind of hippie but extremely hygienic practice. Don’t fear! It’s a little strange at first, but the outcome is surprisingly amazing! All you need is organic coconut oil. Surprise there? I think not, Coconut Oil is useful for almost everything! Take a spoonful before you jump in the shower and swish the oil around in your mouth for about 15 min, taking care to move the oil through your teeth. At first, this is gonna be v weird and probably gonna freak you out, but once you spit the oil out your teeth will be incredibly clean! The mechanism behind this practice is that the oil will pull any toxins that may be chillin in your teeth. Make sure to brush those pearly whites afterwards ( not necessary, just a comfort thing) and do not consume any of the oil!  Smile big for your next photo op!!  :D

Buzzz away

Finals! Capstones! Points! Hours! Oh MY! There are way too many things going on during the months of April and May! Everyone’s birthday is happening, every important exam, every super fun event. I find my planner filled from morning to evening with to do’s and to go’s. So of course, my skin goes into overload as well, with everything so fast paced and stress levels high, I find blemishes popping up when I definitely don’t need them! Buttt I’ve got a little spot treatment up my sleeve to keep the redness down and the blues too.

You only need two simple ingredients, Aloe Vera and Tea Tree essential oil. Mix a few drops of the oil and a small blob of aloe vera in a little container and that’s it! During a short midday break or before you go to bed, apply a small dab on the area that’s necessary! The cooling sensation will let you know that it’s working right away :) I usually make a small batch at the beginning of the week and keep it handy for all the ups and downs!

A Moment of Peace

Again, this is the busiest time of the year. It’s easy to get caught up in grades and the negatives. Make sure that you take a moment to yourself to find some balance. Evening showers are a great time to wind down and wash the day away. So, while you’re in the shower why not try something new to add a little more peace to a busy mind? Here the use of essential oils is again, essential (ba dum tushh). Place a couple drops of Eucalyptus essential oil in your palm/on your fingers; hold to your nose and let the steam do it’s magic. Eucalyptus has been proven to reduce stress and help promote breathing. So breathe deeply! Ahhh a moment of peace.

Grow and Glo

If you’re anything like me, you’re always down for a Teji’s run. The spices in Indian food make my tummy grumble like no other. But did you know that the very same spices that you eat can have a really great effect on your skin too? The spice in the spotlight today is Turmeric. Turmeric has long been used by many beautiful South Asian women to promote glowing skin and health. It said that it can be used to treat a wide range of issues such as heartburn, arthritis, stomach pain and even Alzheimer’s! For the skin, it reduces acne scars, inflammation, and even can help to reduce hair growth. I discovered a special mixture a few years back and could not be more pleased with the results. Grab a bowl and mix:

-one spoon of organic yogurt

-one spoon of chickpea flour ( or regular)

-a tablespoon of Turmeric

-a tablespoon of Rose Water

-a squeeze of honey

Adjust as you like and apply onto the skin. Leave the mixture on for about 10-15 minutes or even longer! Rinse off with warm water. Be careful not to wear anything you like too much because Turmeric does unfortunately stain pretty bad. You may even notice that your skin might be slightly yellow! But no worries, use a cotton ball and some toner to remove any excess yellow! You’ll have a glow that will shine for days :)

That’s all that I have for you all this time around! Remember to take dance breaks, breathe, and understand that there are quite a few things more important than that test grade! But regardless, you all will do great!  :D

Xoxo,

Andrea Yazbeck

Introducing Spring 2016...

Welcome to our Spring 2016 weenie class! We cannot wait to welcome you to the tradition CIWY

Aditi Chalise

Alayna Enos

Alexa Baran

Amila Lulo

Charlotte Lichtenheld

Elaine Garner

Han Bui

Heena Bhakta

Jennifer Ray

Jordan Brown

Katherine Mullings

Kelly Nwonuma

Kelly O'Neill

Louisa Angly

Madison Gwynn

Mallika Maheshwary

Mallory Miller

Margaret Berno

Mari Meier

Marissa Casas

Michaela Caughy

Michelle Zhang

Sabrina Tran

Sarah Grace Forbes

Shalaka Damle

Sydney Mike-Mayer