It’s that time of year- it is likely that we have all had some midterms that caused us undue stress, sleepless nights, and late-night freakouts. It’s also that time of year when the weather is getting colder, and two things occur: simultaneously, we want to leave campus and, due to the cold weather, it’s more difficult to.
By mid-semester, money gets a little tighter. We’ve dipped a bit too much into the money that we earned over the summer, and now we’re feeling the pinch. Even with money being tight though, it’s important to get off of campus once in a while to relax, and separate yourself from school- even if it’s just for an afternoon. Even if it’s just in Worcester.
Boston can be expensive, even though the transportation there can be cheap. Boston is also a walking city- there are few things nicer than walking around Boston on a warm spring or fall day. Food is what kills you financially. Lunch at Quincy Market can cost upwards of ten dollars, and that’s a conservative estimate.
We should strive to be more creative with our activities when it gets cold and money’s tight. Drives along country roads (they do exist in Worcester, you just have to look for them…) and seeing the leaves change is one of my favorite fall activities. And, if you’re looking for a cheap, non-traditional date, this is a great trip to take with your significant other. The drive is a great chance to relax, talk, and spend some quality time together. If your bring your coats, a walk around the arboretum, or other nature-y areas can be a great way to relax together as well.
When you get back from a drive, or walk, or when you’ve reached your homework capactiy, lying in bed together and sipping hot apple cider and watching a movie together is a great way to spend a chilly fall afternoon or evening. The bonus to this is, like a drive through the country, it costs almost nothing, and it provides a great chance to relax as well. Plus, the cold weather makes for great cuddling, which is always nice.
These are only a few ideas, but, I assure you that nothing is better than cuddling up with your significant other on a cold fall day. So, grab a blanket, grab some hot cider, and your favorite movie, and forget about everything else. You, and your wallet or purse, will appreciate the downtime.
Beneath a maple tree I watch the dying leaves let go and tumble down on the blacktopstreets, I’ve got some wildfire in these early morning eyes.