Accessorize in spring

by Chrissy Dill

Staff writer

 

This spring designers have revealed their true colors, and bland accessories such as black handbags and nude pumps are taking a break, making room for bright pastels, chunky earrings and fun shoes in platforms and novelty styles.

A trend Vogue.com calls “modern embellishments” has become popular this season, making an appearance on handbags and a variety of shoe styles.

With embellishment, you can dress up a simple shoe or bag and accomplish chic and practical at the same time.

Another pattern seen on purses and shoes this season is crocodile skin. While actual crocodile skin is worn on the runways, obviously this can be found fake and on a heel or bag in any boutique you walk into.

According to Vogue.com, this skin can be seen everywhere this spring, from evening clutches to day bags to iPad covers.

As far as jewelry is concerned, oversized earrings are the piece of the season. This type of jewelry is termed chandeliers, shoulder-dusters and so forth. This is definitely one look-changing accessory for spring.

Pair these earrings with a simple blouse, not in a loud print; there’s such a thing as being a little too costume-y.

A second trend in jewelry this spring, which can also be found in shoes, is transparency. Vogue.com calls this look “playful and modern at the same time.”

You can sport clear bangle bracelets or find heels with clear, possibly colored, plastic sides or straps to own this trend.

In recent seasons, especially last summer, bright, overdone colors such as tangerine and turquoise were featured on accessories, but this spring, ladylike pastels are in. Find a pair of pumps in a creamy peach or a powdery blue color.

To accomplish both the reptile skin and pastel trend, find a crocodile-skinned clutch in a light pink shade and pair it with your little black dress for a night out. And don’t forget your chunky gold earrings.

Vogue.com lists two types of shoes that are popular this season: the new platform and novelty heels.

The new platform is similar to the usual style, but a heel is added, though still very wide and a part of the platform itself.

Novelty heels are definitely statement shoes, and they feature an upbeat, creative design or style.

Ladies of all shapes and sizes can be happy about this next accessory that is as popular as ever this season: the belt.

Belts come in a variety of styles, wide or skinny, animal/floral print or solid colored.

This trend can be used to your advantage, worn high on your waist to accomplish an hourglass figure or low on your hips to make your hips seem smaller.

This is a simple addition that can go a long way when it comes to refreshing even the most standard of wardrobe staples.

This season provides a variety of accessories to spice up your wardrobe, whether ladylike pastels, crocodile skin or fun earrings.

Accessories serve as the cherry on top of your fabulous sundae of a spring outfit, so have fun shopping for these new trends and making them your own.

 

The new platforms with thick, chunky heels make their debut this spring. (Courtesy photo from www.vogue.com)

 

The transparency trend, shown above in heels and bangles, is a playful twist with a modern look. (Courtesy photo from www.vogue.com)

 

An embellished clutch available at Forever21 for $27.80. (Courtesy photo from www.forever21.com)

 

The new platforms with thick, chunky heels make their debut this spring. (Courtesy photo from www.vogue.com)

 

A faux crocodile skin handbag, such as above, can be found at Target, $31.49. (Courtesy photo from www.target.com)

 

Chunky earrings are definitely a look-changing accessory for spring. These can be found at Claire’s for $7.50. (Courtesy photo from www.claires.com)

 

Pastel sandals can be found at CharlotteRusse.com for $17.50. (Courtesy photo from www.charlotterusse.com)

 

The transparency trend, shown above in heels and bangles, is a playful twist with a modern look. (Courtesy photo from www.vogue.com)

 

Get this wide belt at Old Navy for $19.94. (Courtesy photo from oldnavy.gap.com)

Spring 2012, most-wearable fashion trends

by Chrissy Dill

Staff writer

 

Though we may still need to keep our fur-lined boots, warm scarves and coats handy for this cold weather, spring is in the air, bringing with it pretty pastels and captivating patterns that are a refreshing change.

Two styles you are sure to see on tops this spring are pastels and bold patterns. According to Elle.com’s Top 10 Trends of Spring 2012, these patterns include various animal-inspired fabrics and abstract art with color block.

Color block, which consists of two to three bright colors, usually in squares resembling an abstract art piece, can make a simple dress look chic, serving as a great outfit that is office-appropriate. According to Glamour.com, a good tip to consider when wearing color block is to stick to no more than three colors to avoid looking too flashy and distracting.

When it comes to bold prints this spring, the bigger, the better, including oversized florals and mirror-like geometric shapes. A piece of advice: only one bold pattern piece in an outfit. Either pair a bright-patterned skirt with an off-white top or a patterned blazer with a simple black shirt and slacks. More than one loud pattern will make the outfit seem sloppy, and you more than likely won’t be taken seriously.

If the color-block look or bold patterns aren’t your thing, Glamour.com says tangerine is a popular color for this spring. Purchase a bright dress in this color and pair it with a blazer or cardigan while there’s still a chill in the air.

Pastels are also popular colors this season and are appearing on flowy dresses and blouses.

With the upcoming season comes refreshing spring showers, but don’t be discouraged trying to still look cute while walking in the rain to class. Glamour.com calls “anoraks” a top trend for this spring.

These raincoat-type jackets give a sporty-vibe to your rainy-day outfit. Pair one with riding boots and boot socks, and don’t forget a cute scarf and your umbrella.

For that night out this spring, invest in a metallic piece. A wrap skirt in shiny bronze or emerald green with black pumps and a dressy white blouse will give you the confidence you need.

For business wear this season, a style termed “peplum” has become popular, found in skirts, tops and dresses. Glamour.com defines this style as a short flared ruffle that sits at the natural waist.

Since the center of the peplum skirt, top and dress is at your waist (the smallest part of your torso), wearing this style will create a slimming effect, helping you achieve that desired hourglass figure.

So during your spring shopping trip, keep an eye out for pastels and bold prints, and get yourself a peplum dress or a fun metallic miniskirt for a night out.

 

Above: Peplum dress, tobi.com, $35. (Courtesy photo from www.tobi.com)

 

Above: Color blocks consisting of two to three bright colors can make a simple dress look chic. (Courtesy photo from www.glamour.com)

 

Above: Pastel on a flowy dress or blouse is a popular color choice for the season. (Courtesy photo from www.glamour.com)

 

Above: Metallic miniskirt, asos.com, $35.81. (Courtesy photo from us.asos.com)

Walk in the shoes of an SE student from another student’s perspective

Photos courtesy of Kacy Hammock

 

Senior finance major Breeanna Robberson- “I have learned many things to aid me in my future career as a financial manager like investing tips and how to manage portfolios for a company. However, I believe the most beneficial thing I’ve learned is how to apply these strategies to my personal life.”

 

Senior conservation major Ethan Lovelace- “Conservation is perfect for me and my lifestyle. One thing that I like most about my major is catching turtles and finding new species.”

 

Sophomore business management major and football player, Anthony Gale- “Football is just another outlet for me to finish school with a degree in business management. I have to have my priorities in order so I can do my best on the field and great in the classroom. Just in case I don’t make it to the next level in football. I will still be successful in life with my degree in business management.”

 

Senior nursing major Emily Quam has been at SE for 4 years and just recently got into the nursing program. “I was so excited when I got the letter, I jumped around my apartment and cried!” said Quam.

 

Senior art major Chance Mobbs- “I have painted about 50 paintings and have been in numerous exhibitions. I have been commissioned by Choctaw Casino, and they are hanging in the event center’s green room.”

 

Senior aviation major Michael Forman- “I just really like to fly. I like to see the world from another perspective than most people do everyday.”

Fall season brings new makeup trends

by Chrissy Dill

Staff writer

There are countless types of makeup, which provide the opportunity to play up your appearance with your personal style of clothing accordingly. As with color palettes in fashion trends changing from season to season, you can also alter your makeup as the weather changes.

Once summer comes to an end, you can change your look with autumn makeup. According to ehow.com’s style site, autumn makeup colors reflect the cooler season and the expectation that winter is around the corner.

Most fall makeup brightens the complexion and uses warm tones to add color to the face.

If you stopped using foundation during the summer, possibly because your skin tends to get oily in hot weather, add it back to your morning makeup regimen, according to ehow.com. Begin using a lightweight foundation and powder again.

Though in the summer you may find your skin taking an oily feel, in the cooler months it may become dry. In this case, find a facial moisturizer or beauty lotion.

Facial lotion can even be found with acne medication in its formula, which is especially useful depending on your skin type.

While in the summer you may have used a light-colored eye shadow, like a lavender or cream hue, switch to darker tones in the fall.

Use chocolate hues on your eyes. Brows and lashes should utilize dark brown colors, so search for a shadow and liner in an espresso color or even a charcoal shade.

Tone down the blush and, according to ehow, steer away from the pink shades used in the summer. Instead, put darker shades on your cheeks or skip the blush altogether and use a bronzer.

When it comes to lip color, find a long-lasting lipstick in a darker autumn shade that will last you all day without fading. Mattes should replace the light glosses used over the summer.

You don’t necessarily need to apply darker-toned makeup in the fall; neutrals are always flattering on any skin tone. Beiges and nudes are stylish.

Apply a dark brown eye liner on your lower lid and the outer-half of your upper lid and add a neutral eye shadow all over the lid for an every-day, pretty look.

If you’re feeling brave, experiment with bold colors.

Lips are usually the best area to try out bolds, such as a classic bombshell red lipstick, but a charcoal eye shadow can be worn for a smoky-eye look that is perfect for an evening out.

With cooler weather comes darker tones in your makeup, pairing your cozy winter outfit with a warm appearance and complexion.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold colors but keep an every-day neutral look on hand.

 

Use warm tones to add color to the face and try out the "smoky eye: look for a night out on the town. (Photo from cleaningoutyourcloset.blogspot.com)

 

Look for a darker-shaded eye shadow for the fall rather than a light shimmer as in the summer. (Photo from www.life123.com)

Seasonal dorm comfort food favorites

By Laura Tomah

Yeardisc editor

Fall is here, and comfort food of the season is in demand. Aside from sweet potatoes, pumpkin pie and turkey, these recipes are sure to become favorites in the comfort of your dorm room.
The cheesy cauliflower in the cauliflower au gratin, delicious corn on the cob and rich tumbleweed candy are sure to fill you up as, hopefully, cold weather approaches.

This cauliflower au gratin is cheesy, warm and delicious–sure to give you your cheese fix with a little bit of veggies too.

CAULIFLOWER AU GRATIN
Servings: 4
1 (16 ounce) bag of frozen cauliflower
2 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/2 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/8 teaspoon paprika

Place cauliflowers and water in 1-quart casserole; cover. Microwave full power until tender, 7-10 minutes, stirring after half the cooking time. Drain and set aside.
Place butter in 2 cup measuring dish. Microwave full power until melted, 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Stir in flour. Blend in milk, mustard and salt. Microwave until thickened, 3 minutes, stirring every minute. Stir in cheese and microwave until melted.
Pour over cauliflowers in small microwave safe casserole dish. Sprinkle with paprika and microwave 1 minute.
Nutrition information per serving (values are rounded to the nearest whole number): 458  calories; 33 g total fat; 19 g  saturated fat;  2 g polyunsaturated fat;  10 g monounsaturated fat; 93 mg cholesterol;  1,371 mg sodium;  454 mg potassium;  16 g total carbohydrate;  5 g dietary fiber; 5 g sugars;  27 g protein.

(Recipe from www.cooks.com)

Corn on the cob is one of my favorite vegetables and something I think of when I think of fall. This unique microwave way of preparing it is sure to give you the taste of fall.

CORN ON THE COB MICROWAVE STYLE
Servings: 1 per piece of corn
Corn on the cob
Waxed paper
Paper towel

Remove the husks from fresh ears of corn; scrub with a stiff brush to remove silks. Rinse. Wrap each ear in waxed paper and place on paper towels in the microwave. Cook on high power, 3-5 minutes for 1 ear, 5-7 minutes for 2 ears, or 9-12 minutes for 4 ears.
Nutrition information per serving (values are rounded to the nearest whole number): 120 calories;  2 g total fat;  0 g saturated fat;  0 mg  cholesterol; 20 mg sodium;  27 g  total carbohydrate;  4 g dietary fiber;  8 g sugars; 0 g protein.

(Recipe from www.cooks.com)

This microwave candy that was featured on Paula Dean’s cooking show is sure to fulfill your sweet tooth craving and makes enough for you to take to any parties you may be invited to.

MEEMAW’S TEXAS TUMBLEWEED CANDY
Servings: 40
1 (12-ounce) package white almond bark
1 cup (6-ounces) butterscotch or peanut butter chips
1 (1-pound) package roasted salted peanuts
3 cups (about 4 1/2 ounces) potato sticks, plus more if desired

In a microwave oven or in the top of a double boiler over simmering water, melt the bark and the chips together. Stir with a heatproof spatula or wooden spoon to combine.
Mix in the nuts and potato sticks, adding additional potato sticks if desired. Drop by the spoonful onto waxed paper and allow to cool. Store the candy in an airtight container.
Nutrition information per serving (values are rounded to the nearest whole number): 211 calories;   18 g total fat;   6 g saturated fat;   4 g polyunsaturated fat;   7 g monounsaturated fat;   9 mg cholesterol;    178 mg sodium;   278 mg potassium;   10 g total carbohydrate;    3 g  dietary fiber; 1 g sugars;  8 g protein.
(Recipe from www.foodnetwork.com)

I hope you enjoy all of these fall recipes as much as my friends and I did. If your mother wonders if you are eating properly in college, you can tell her even the candy you eat has vegetables in it.

 

Cauliflower Au Gratin

 

Corn on the Cob Microwave Style

 

Meemaw's Texas Tumbleweed Candy

 

 

Fall 2011 accessories

By Chrissy Dill

Staff writer

With the fall season upon us, new fashion trends are making appearances in the form of jackets, boots and various types of outerwear and sweaters. With these news trends come some fun new accessories that will put a wild spin on your fall outfit.

A pattern that vogue.com calls “native ethnic” fist was seen at the end of summer and is prominent on the runways for this fall. Navajo beading and Native American-style diamond patterns are being seen on handbags, tops and even boots and stilettos.

Desert-inspired looks with elegant fringe in a suede or leather-type material are also included in the native ethnic trend category. Moccasin-type flats and boots as well as feathers on jewelry and hair accessories are quite stylish this fall as well.

Color palettes for this fall are on opposite ends of the spectrum, which means anyone can be satisfied with their color choice. The bold trend of color block this summer forges ahead into the fall, according to vogue.com, with 70s-inspired mustard and mulberry shades and ruby and royal deliver a major color-block pop on heels, boots and bags.

The other popular color this season is winter white. Fashionable celebrities have been spotted pairing an elegant white blouse with white trousers, which makes for a very put-together and chic look.

If you aren’t quite brave enough to pull of all-white attire, this sophisticated color is appearing on leather chain purses, strappy heels and clutches.

While leopard print always seems to be in style, putting a sexy spin in an ordinary outfit, python print is a trendy pattern for this fall. According to vogue.com, this pattern is the statement-maker on runways from Prada to Proenza.

Python on a flat, boot or handbag looks especially stylish when dressed up in an unexpected, bright color, so carry a clutch in this wild pattern and a bright red dress for an evening out.

When it comes to this season’s jewelry, long earrings make a fashionable statement and give a pretty spin to an outfit. Whether beaded fringe, stunning gems, or a cascade of eye-catching jewels or beads, long, dangly earrings are the key piece of jewelry to purchase this fall.

Getting you prepared for a winter look, fur trim is being added to fall wardrobes, giving you a luxurious and season-appropriate way to update your autumn accessories. Whether lining boots, gloves or purse handles, fur was everywhere in the fall collections, according to vogue.com.

Oxford flats became a popular footwear last fall, and this year they are taking on a new twist: a sky-high heel. The menswear trend gets more feminine this fall with the addition of a heel to a classic Oxford.

Another trendy fabric to be included in your fall look is velvet, which is being seen on wedges, tasseled boots and slippers this season. This material works best when paired with metallic combinations, particularly gold trim, creating a daring yet refreshing and delicate effect.

Python, velvet and fur are all stylish textures this season, and when you collage these patterns together in the right way, the look is surprisingly chic. The combination is being displayed on bags and shoes on the runways, adding elements of interest to otherwise simple looks.

When discussing the “it” bag for this season, the clutch has emerged as the bag for fall, according to vogue.com. Soft and oversize, structured and embellished, bold print or color block, classic beige or cherry red, this handheld bag is a must-have.

Clutches are easy to find in any boutique or clothing store, and they come in countless styles.

For a night out, clutches are definitely a needed accessory. A large purse carried on the shoulder you carry during the week will automatically make your elegant evening mini dress seem casual or dressed-down.

With these interesting new trends in accessories, your fall shopping trip should be a fun one, and we all know, shoe, purse and jewelry shopping is always a good time.

 

Native ethnic print, $24.50, ae.com

 

Mensware trend, Oxfords with heel. $24.80, forever21.com

 

Python print, clutch. $12.50, charlotterusse.com

Fall fashion trends 2011

by Chrissy Dill

Staff writer

Fall 2011’s fashion palette has a refreshing feel, bringing interesting trends, bright colors, various styles of skirts and pieces that are made to show off your hourglass shape.

A relief from last fall’s dark color trend, this fall look for bright pieces that will liven up any cold, dreary day. According to thebudgetfashionista.com, designers have merged the popular orange and red colors of summer to make a new hue called emberglow, a bright, reddish-orange shade that is a warmer version of the color rust, and works well with any skin tone.

Two more fashionable colors for this fall are jade, a rich green hue, and deep teal, a bright blue, and mustard. These colors work well with most skin types, but go exceptionally well with darker skin tones.

Find a scarf in this new color to brighten up an otherwise dark outfit, or finding a pea coat in this hue should be simple, as these types of coats come in many colors and patterns.

Though this particular outerwear may be better suited for a girl who isn’t going to class every day and rather has a full-time job where she must dress professionally, the cape will be seen everywhere this fall. This trend is perfect for transitioning into the cool weather of fall and is similar to, dare I say it, a poncho.

This trend can be tricky to pull off, but is best worn with layers, a light, long-sleeved top in the early fall and transition to a heavier sweater when the weather gets cooler.

There are two types of skirts that are popular for this fall: the pencil skirt, a classic wardrobe staple for the stylish businesswoman, and the maxi skirt, a style that can be worn casually. Pair your pencil skirt with a bright colored top and a pair of simple black pumps.

The key to wearing the maxi skirt is to think proportions. According to thebudgetfashionista.com, you should pair it with a long top or sweater, at least mid-thigh, like a boyfriend cardigan, or a cropped sweater top. To pull all these long, flowy layers together and make your look appear more sophisticated, add a belt around your waist and bold earrings.

While floral prints were trendy in the summer, another type of pattern makes its way into the fall season: polka dots. This print is popping up on tops, purses and even pants. The key to pulling off this trend without looking like you’re borrowing your little sister’s favorite sweater is stick to small dots, less than the size of a pencil eraser, and go beyond the regular black and white print.

If a polka-dot top isn’t your thing, try a scarf in this print to put a trendy spin on an everyday outfit.

Another pattern that seems to be in style every time fall comes around is plaid. Whether this print is on a pea coat and is being worn with stylish work-appropriate attire on a chilly day or it is on a simple, comfy flannel blouse being worn on a weekend shopping trip or to a football game, this is a classic look that everyone, including designers, seems to love.

An interesting trend this fall is pairing a chunky sweater with a summery skirt or dress. The chunkier and cozier the sweater the better, and get some use out of that light cotton skirt you wore this summer by pulling this big winter sweater over the top. Just remember, layering is your best friend with many of these trends.

Stylish seniors going on job interviews this fall, listen up: give your go-to black slacks a rest and purchase a sophisticated working-girl dress that is tailored to automatically make you feel like a professional. These simple dresses can be found in 70s-inspired looks, with long, blousy sleeves and a mid-length skirt, or a more classic feel, a modest but form-fitting black dress paired with a blazer.

One of the most fun and most-wearable trends for college students this season are bright colored pants. Rainbow-hued pants are a great way to add interest to an outfit, and they are a perfect way to get out of your usual blue jean rut.

The key to pulling off these bright pants is pairing them with a neutral top to tone down the eccentric look.

Whether you’re a fan of polka dots or plaid, office attire or comfortable maxi skirts, the fashion trends this fall are sure to satisfy any college student and trendsetter.

 

Maxi skirt, Victoria's Secret $39.50.

Image from http://www.thebudgetfashionista.com

 

Chunky sweaters with summery skirts.

Image from http://www.glamour.com

Some classic fashions still an everyday option

By Chrissy Dill, Staff writer

With every season comes new fashion and cute trends; some people love them, some will hate them and some may have their own styles altogether.

Some trends will go out of style within a year and be forgotten, some could be remembered for their trendiness and some will be remembered for their bold, only-seen-on-the-runway style.

Other styles, however, have become classic and will be present in fashion for years to come.

The first trend that has been popular for years may not be easy for every woman, but there are ways to attain it. The feminine hour-glass shape has been catching men’s eyes throughout history and is seen as attractive on any woman.

If you are slim and don’t have the “assets” to pull off the hour-glass look, search for clothing that cinches at the waist and draws attention to your middle. Show off what curves you have by wearing a high-waisted skirt or a wide belt around your middle.

Photo from forever21.com

When you want to feel stylish and sexy, a woman cannot go wrong with a little black dress. Ever since Audrey Hepburn sported that iconic outfit in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” the LBD has been a closet staple for every woman.

It’s possible to find your LBD at a reasonable price. They can be found in just about any women’s clothing store. For example, forever21.com has a large collection of these dresses in a variety of styles, from work-appropriate to a night out on the town.

A great plus of the LBD is its ability to adapt to different situations in a woman’s life. For work, pair it with a slim-fitting blazer and matching heels with quiet jewelry. For date night, sport bright red heels and gold accessories, and be brave with bright red lipstick that is sure to get double-takes.

A trend that some women may find hard to pull off, myself included, are big, dark sunglasses. Usually large sunglasses can look a bit awkward on a narrow or small face.

Obviously this accessory can’t be worn inside buildings, but keep them in your bag and throw them on when you walk outside. Fabulous oversized sunglasses make a bold statement and add a little sophisticated glamour to any look.

Photo from shine.yahoo.com

Another positive trait big sunglasses have is a quick fix to a lazy day. Not get your beauty sleep the night before or don’t feel like putting makeup on this morning? This trend is an easy fix to your not-so-glamorous-feeling day.

What is the No.1, most evident trend that we see every, single day? Denim. A good pair of jeans is one fashion item that will never die.

Jeans are coming in countless styles today: destroyed denim, dark wash and skinny jeans to high-waisted and bell bottoms making a comeback.

Certain styles are better suited for different body types. Skinny jeans generally look more appealing on women with long legs while simple flares look great on just about anyone.

A great-fitting pair of jeans is hard to come by, so when you find a pair you love, make the purchase and you won’t regret it.

Denim jackets are also seen as a trend, but please don’t pair a denim jacket with your denim jeans. There is such a thing as too much of this fabric.

A denim jacket looks best over a summer dress. These two pieces come together to make a very cute and flirty outfit.

No matter what your personal style consists of, wear it with a smile and radiating confidence, and you will get noticed and make a statement.

Photo from victoriassecret.com

The dorm room gourmet: Cake from your microwave

By Laura Tomah, Contributing writer

Being away from home in a dorm room certainly has its disadvantages, one of the biggest being missing your mom’s or grandma’s cooking. I particularly miss the smell of my grandma’s cooking, especially all of her delicious baked goods.

Aside from missing my grandma’s baked goods, I miss being able to cook and bake while residing in the dorms. I grew up participating in 4-H and entering numerous cooking and baking competitions, and have even competed on a state level.

While sitting in the newsroom one day, it occurred to me that many students may feel the same way, so I have decided to try to come up with easy, cheap microwave meals for Southeastern students to prepare in the comfort of their dorm rooms.

Before attempting this recipe, there are a few things that need to be kept in mind, such as never putting aluminum foil or metal pans in the microwave; this can lead to a messy catastrophe at best, a burn unit at worst.

Also, some plastic and even certain glass dishes are not meant for microwave use. To be on the safe side, check the container you plan to use. Almost all cookware will be labeled as either microwave safe or not meant for microwave use.

Feel free to try different cake mixes, as well as various pie fillings; I haven’t found a bad combination yet. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I have. Have fun!

Microwave Cake

Ingredients

•  1 (18.25 ounce) pack-age yellow cake mix

•   3 eggs

•  1 (21 ounce) can apple pie filling (or other flavor you want to try)

•   1/2 cup applesauce

Directions

•   Mix the box of cake mix, eggs, pie filling and applesauce until moist. Use a microwave safe bunt pan or substitute a microwave safe bowl that has a microwave safe cup or cone placed in the middle of it (to mimic a bunt pan). Pour mixture into the bowl around the cup.

•   Bake on high for six minutes 30 seconds, turn and bake for another six minutes 30 seconds on high. Remove from oven, cover bowl with a dish and let stand for 5 minutes (this finishes the cooking process).

•   Turn cake over onto dish and remove cone (cup) for a delicious quick dessert. This is good while hot with vanilla ice cream or some other whipped topping.

 

Totally serious horoscope

We are not responsible for what happens if you take this seriously.

By Steven Dixon, Advertising director

 

Pisces (Feb. 19 – Mar. 20)

You’ve made it your life mission to find the best crab cakes and coffee in Durant and then share this information with the general public. Truly, you are one of America’s unsung heroes.

Aries (Mar. 21 – Apr. 19)

Today you will take comfort in the thought that Jesus loves you, particularly since nobody else loves, or likes you for that matter, very much.

Taurus (Apr. 20 – May 20)

The police will detain you this month, on suspicion of having removed a tag from a mattress.  Eventually they will let you go with just a warning.

Gemini (May 21 – Jun. 20)

Bring extra. You’re gonna need it.

Cancer (Jun. 21 – Jul. 22)

Have a special Web site name in mind? Or, do you have one yourself? Look up its worth on valuethewebsite.com

Leo (Jul. 23 – Aug. 22)

Don’t let school get in the way of your education.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sep. 22)

The shoe will be on the other foot this week, leading to severe discomfort, unflagging embarrassment and a sudden spill down some stairs.

Libra (Sep. 23 – Oct. 22)

Strange impulses you can neither explain nor describe compel you to withdraw your entire life savings, drive to Winstar and bet it all on red.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)

Years of enduring the constant, numbing pain of existence will end today when you discover a magical drink called “whiskey” that makes all your problems disappear.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)

Sometimes in life, you have to put your fear aside and stand up for what you believe in. Thankfully for you, today’s situation isn’t one of those times. Run away screaming like a little girl and hope it doesn’t end up on Youtube.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 20)

Buy some aloe for that sunburn you picked up over spring break. Also, consider the consequences of your more painful decisions for the sake of the future; is avoiding tan lines really worth the ability to sit down without crying?

Aquarius (Jan. 21 – Feb. 18)

The stars blah blah blah, exciting life changes blah blah blah and a journey over water leading to something blah blah blah. Don’t feed the squirrels.