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Editor’s Letter I’m just a small town girl, living in a lonely world. Jokes, I don’t live in a lonely world, but I do come from a small town and in small towns one thing is always prominent: community. Community is probably the Once we realize the power of adjust our focus, we can strengthen foundation of my love for small combining our strengths and weakour sense of community in our immetowns. To me, the way people’s lives nesses with those of others – differ- diate environment. intertwine is painfully beautiful. It ent from our own – we’ll go through That is why my vision for Brumakes my heart smile from ear to ear life much more efficiently. I may tus in my year as editor is to create a when I walk down the street and all I know next to nothing about business platform for Nerinas to grow more see is a variety of familiar faces smil- and economics, but and to become more aware ing at me, asking how I’m doing and isn’t that what a of the girls we share our “...redirect the inviting me to come over and have “successful” business home with. tea some time. strives toward? EffiMy dream is that we route…” There is a reason solitary con- ciency and effectivity? create a sense of community finement is used to punish: I believe And don’t worwithin the larger community we humans were not made to be ry, I still believe that I am a strong, of this paradise we have the privilege alone. We were made to interact and independent woman – I just see my- of studying in. I want to redirect the engage with others. We were made self as a strong, independent woman route we’re going to a more personto share our lives instead of isolating in the context of a community of fel- al, Nerina-oriented destination. ourselves from everything and every- low humans, each strong and indeone. pendent in their own way. We share a home, we might We all need comWith the advanceas well make it a tiny community to munity – even those of ment of technology and social flourish and grow in – together. “...community media came a means to conus who enjoy spending time alone. How slowly nect with others from anyLove, of fellow we’d learn and develop humans…” where across the world with Hannelize. and grow if we isolated more ease than ever before, ourselves from others but unfortunately it also lead and their experiences and the wisus to forget about our immediate dom they have acquired! surroundings – the community we Believing you can go through come into contact with on a daily balife without the love, help and supsis. port of others is, in my opinion, the I believe that if we only use sign of a prideful mindset. our resources more strategically and
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Lion to Lamb/ Fedics Food Review My favourite things (Nerina Amiga) Essential Life Hacks/ Spot the Nerina Corridor Conversations The Nerina Spotlight Nerina Bucketlist/ Answer to Spot the Nerina Nerina Fun Facts Dear Diary CafĂŠ Review Top 10 Foodie Things to do in Stellenbosch A Destination of Enchantment How-to column A Regular Rubric/ Fitness guide Brutus Blogging/ Competition Brutus | March 2018
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Lion to Lamb Lion Lamb
As the saying goes, March comes “in like a lion, and out like a lamb” and Nerina made sure of this as we kicked off the month of March with our annual Huisfonds Dans, Family weekend and what was the first of many more nights out and about town for the Firsties. By Larise Ferreira Riddle me this, there is a bus full of All rested up and craving rent destination. It was green people travelling to Opskop and no some bonding time, Family weekend lights go and all 10 participating secone gets off the bus throughout the started with dinner in the quad and a tions were speeding off into the dijourney. But when it reaches its des- surprise from the NCC later that rection of their first clues. tination, there is evening, which After running nearly three not a single perturned out to be yet times your recommend steps in no “... at Stellenbosch’s son left. How is another screening of more than 30 minutes, it’s a good this possible? Easy, premier sokkie club …” the ultimate chickthing that Drie Balke had specials to they all had dates. flick, ‘Mean Girls’, in keep us hydrated. “In wine there is On the first of the Rec Hall (yay). wisdom. In beer there is freedom. In March the dance floor at StellenAfter rather uneventful night in res, water there is bacteria bosch’s premier sokkie club was jam- anticipation for Saturday’s (or in our case, a packed with nurses, Nesquikactivities were running “… tactical drought)” were the bunnies, nerds and 1980’s gym invery high. naps…” words of Benjamin structors dressed in neon. It was And as always the commitFranklin, one of the such an exclusive event that the local tees in Nerina never fail to founding fathers of the United news team even made an appearimpress. Inter-Sectional CompetiStates of America. With these words ance. Since Family weekend and the tions were introduced, and taken debut for the firsties’ night out was very seriously by some (Hyde), in the drifting around in my mind, along with a massive headache the followthe following day, some girls thought form of an Amazing Race across it clever to rest up and take tactical campus with clues to the next desti- ing morning, the true meaning of the nation given once a photo of the naps in Opskop’s bathroom stalls � saying “in like a lion, out like a lamb” whole section was taken at the cur- became clear.
Food Review By Nsuku Nkuna
A lot can be said about food, we can’t live without it and sometimes we wish we hadn’t had eaten it. How do students feel about the Fedics food? I’ve sat down with students to ask them how they feel about the food and some have expressed that they feel like the staff does not really care about what they serve. They’re just there to cook the food and get a pay cheque. Some have also expressed that they feel like some dishes
do not deserve to be served i.e. the fish bake, if you’re lucky, you’ll only make the mistake of booking it once in your life. However, it is not all so bad. There’s always that meal that brings all the students to the dining hall, if you don’t believe me, try booking schnitzel on
Brutus | March 2018
Wednesday or the burgers on Fedics Friday. The quality of the food feels as though it’s declining but at least schnitzel Wednesday will always have our back.
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My favourite things By Rozaan Müller
“Amiga” is the feminine form of the word friend in Spanish. Nerina Amiga is where each first year gets paired up with a senior, where the senior becomes like a big sister in res to the first year and the opportunity to develop a special friendship is created. During the week of the 5th to the 9th of March Nerina was hustling and bustling with first years trying to successfully “spook” the seniors. Lané Katzke, organising Nerina Amiga theme for their senior. Some first Amiga. She also enjoys the fact that this year, says that the purpose of Neri- years called in a friend’s help to deliver you can get to know a senior on-onna Amiga is to build relationships in res, their note, others left a surprise in one and that one can get personal adespecially between first years and sen- front of their senior’s room, knocked vice in a more informal setting. Meraki iors, between girls you would normally and ran to keep their identity secret. Matthee, also first year, loves her Aminot cross paths with during everydayDuring the week the seniors ga and cannot wait for them to go and life or would not have met otherwise. got to know their first year’s favourite surf together. Lané says Nerina Amiga colour, childhood canThe Wellness Committe enis also something in the “… the big reveal …” dy, place, quote and courages Amigas to participate in the line of a personal menactivity. The first years next three events later this year. There tor. Senior Amiga’s is also a great really enjoyed the seniors also leaving will be time slots given with the theme source of information on anything Stel- them a note on their doors. in line with, “These are a few of my lenbosch – from advice on student-life The excitement level in res was favourite things”, and the opportunity to where to go or not go. A Senior high when the big reveal finally came will be created for the amigas to do Amiga is someone who can give you on Sunday. The Wellness Committee something fun to get to know each tips an bits of wisdom out of their own asked the seniors to pack a picnic bas- other even better after Amiga-week. experiences. ket based on the clues the first years The events will not be compulsory but This year the theme for Nerina left them throughout the week – for highly recommended. Amiga is, “These are a few of my faexample one senior got her amiRalph Waldo “...source of invourite things”. The Wellness Commit- ga a coffee mug that combines Emmerson once said, tee matched all the first years in res the first year’s favourite colour formation…” “To have a friend, one with a senior that has the same favour- and place. On Sunday the senmust be one” – let the ite movie genre as them so that the the iors patiently awaited (blindfolded!) two Amigas have at least one small the first years outside their rooms, pic- amigas follow this advice, and who thing in common and people were not nic basket packed. The first years knows, some of the sweetest friendjust paired up randomly. fetched their seniors at their rooms an ships ever known may form. May all The Wellness Committee sent guided them to the quad for a picnic the Amigas one day eventually say, in out a program for the week to the sen- where the reveal took place. In the the words of Winnie the Pooh, “We did iors and first years with each theme quad the amigas met for the first time not even realize we were making memfor every day linked to the overall and a great time was had finally being ories, we just knew we were having theme of the year. For five days the able to chat and start building that amifirst years had to “spook” their Amigas ga bond. Jena Schmidt, first year, en- fun.” by getting creative and leaving notes and little gifts related to ecah days
joyed Amiga-week very much. She says she has quite a bit in common with her
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By Meraki Matthee
We’ve made it. We survived the first term of university. For some of us it was that typical situation of looking left and right before the cars go beep, beep, beep as we cross the street, then getting hit by an aeroplane. Others were the ones flying the aeroplane, taking off and soaring and then just getting disoriented. I spoke to a few more experienced pilots and here are a few pointers on how to get through the next term with less bumps and bruises: Get yourself an exam buddy (not your roommate) and call each other an hour before your exam to make sure the other person is awake. TurnItIn only assesses 4 consecutive words, so just make sure to change every fourth word to avoid a high plagiarism percentage. Limit yourself by rather taking cash to En Route than a card. Join every committee and take part in every res activity. NOT for roompoints, but for yourself. This way you make friends, form connections and learn more about who you are. Don’t worry about first year spread. Second year spread is worse. Go easy on pre’s at dances, in order to remember at least a little bit of your dance. Get yourself a monthly calendar, and paste in on your wall in such a way that you can see all the months. Do this so that you can plan ahead and not get a freight when you flip to the next month. Prepare yourself psychologically. Meta’s COB is better than En Route (your parents pay). These are some tips and tricks of the trade from a few seniors. If you followed these little bits of genius in the next term you may have a softer landing. Next time you cross the street with your fine legs remember to look left and right. And up.
Sport the NeriNa!
our owN ‘where’S waldo’! aNSwerS oN p
By Larise Ferreira
Let’s face it girls, for those of us so unlucky in love that even blind dates aren’t an option anymore Scot Adams’ words are the bitter truth. “Nothing defines humans better than our willingness to do irrational things in the pursuit of phenomenally unlikely payoffs.” In my opinion, this is the principle beThe only thing buzzing more bit too often? hind blind dating. During the weeks than Nerina’s hallways before Sure, blind dates can be fun. leading up to Nerina’s annual Huisfonds Dans, is Nerina’s hallways The excitement of meeting someone Huisfonds Dans, the hallways have AFTER Huisfonds Dans. Between the new, that butterfly feeling you get been buzzing with ladies pondering success stories and the girls who take when you try to escape through this year’s theme, the fact that is was the saying “Love is blind” a Opskop’s bathroom taking part on a Thursday and of little too literally, I heard of window... After encourse the inevitable date situation. a few blind dates that will gaging in a few cor“...phenomenally With blind dates being so com- put any ‘Tinder’-memes to ridor chats I can say unlikely payoffs …” mon for informal dances that free shame. with some certainty guide dogs ought to be handed out, What’s more awkthat blind dates friends quickly took ward than your blind date tell- aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, but that care of this burden ing you he posts all of his dates they sure do make one hell of a story for one another. I “...certainly not on Facebook for his friends to to tell your grandkids one day. In life as don’t care what any- the thought that vote on or accidentally hooking in the lottery we have to embark on one says, when it up with the very date you had irrational things in the pursuit of phecounts …” comes to setting your arranged for your friend and nomenally unlikely payoffs and a lifefriend up with a blind breaking almost half the rules time of stories. date, it is certainly not the thought written in the ‘Girl Code’. Perhaps the that counts but the actual EXCECU- fact that you reminded him of his TION. mother or that he spoke about weed a
The NeRiNa
SpoTlighT By Nsuku Nkuna
We sit down for an interview with Faith Mahlaba who’s currently in her third year of her BA Law degree. Faith, you’ve been in Nerina for three stand. I don’t like how developing of year now, what have you come to like leadership has declined from my first and dislike about the res? year, I don’t think leadership is being There are three things that cultivated. It’s almost as though first I’ve come to love about being in Neri- years and second years are expected na. Firstly, I like being able to interact to come into positions like emerging with different people on a daily basis. leaders or senior committee in order Secondly, I’’ve learnt to love sharing a to be leaders. Someone could easily space with someone and thirdly, I like pull you aside and ask you help set up the warmth and the for house meeting, “...don’t sacrifice friendliness you get that’s leadership in itself from the people who because you’re serving. your sanity …” work here, mostly I also feel as from the people of colour. though we’re stagnant when it comes What I don’t really like is how to transformation, we’re not really the naming of things makes you feel moving. unwelcomed, we have Afrikaans domWhat activities have you done inating in the res and I feel like I’m within the res? forcing myself into space or I’m being I don’t remember everything accommodated when I know that the that I’ve done but I didn’t do much in space belongs to me anyway. I also my first year. I was a mentor last year feel like there’s a lot of effort that’s and I’m doing critical engagement this being put into cradling ignorance, ig- year. I don’t remember being actively norance of issues on campus and of involved but I’m always giving input the things that are going on in the here and there lives of people around us. We’ve not As this is your final year in honest with ourselves and each other, Nerina, what advice would you like to you can easily say to me “Faith, I don’t give to the first years and to future like you because you’re Nerinas? black and I have precon- “...rock your afro, To the first years, ceived notions of peowhen the reality of the sitrelaxed hair, your uation in Stellenbosch hits ple who are black, weave …” therefore, can you you, don’t let it consume please teach me.” We you and don’t sacrifice can’t learn anything if we don’t admit your sanity or any part of yourself for that we have a problem or at least Stellenbosch because it’s not going to there’s something you don’t under- change in your lifetime. We want
transformation and we want to bring our children here one day but it’s institutional, you can’t change it alone. For future Nerinas, be your beautiful black selves and black in the sense of Steve Biko and it’s not to exclude white people, they already have a position here that has already been cemented, I can’t keep uplifting people that are already up there so this if for the black future Nerinas. Be fabulous, rock your afro, relaxed hair, your weave and don’t feel like you have to explain your blackness to any other person except yourself.
By Jana van der Westhuizen Swim in the fountain (when we have water again someday) Celebrate the new day with champagne at sunrise on the balcony (8 am class gon' be niiiice) UberEATS a meal shamelessly. Sleepovers (could include binge watching Grey's or something) Picnic on the front lawn Tan in the quad Kayla workout in the quad for other's entertainment Maroon Mondays with lots of GEES InBlyNaweek Have a blind date for a dance Chicken Schnitzel Wednesday Climb onto SS roof and stargaze. Get to know your Nerina Amiga Roommate bonding For the gram: Hike Lions Head Kirstenbosch/US Botanical Gardens Zeitz MOCCA JC le Roux champagne and nougat pairing Winetram in Franschoek Babylonstoren Seapoint Promenade.
Spot the NeriNa!
aNSwer
By Megan van Schalkwyk
As a fresh(wo)man at Nerina, here are some fresh, interesting facts to help you feel better about procrastinating from your studies: Nerina gets her name from the IndigeNerina's quad has a large Jaca- gather at the back door, instead of nous South African flower, Nerine Fli- randa tree, complete with our own the front door. This gives us ample folia, which mainly grows in open indigenous owl family. Once a year, time to get through the door without grasslands and humid places in the baby owls that make their appearance being squashed. Eastern Cape, Transkei, Swaziland, around the time when Nerinas should We have a beautiful balcony Mpumalunga and Free State. It has start studying for year-end exams. that overlooks the Helderberg moungrassy leaves and bears masses of However, be sure to avoid the quad tain range. It is just as far away as the pale pink flowers on stalks. It takes during that time, for Helderberg res and this these bulbous plants three years to your own safety, as the summer, its trees are just flower for the first time mother owl is “… Lekkerrr! …” as dried out as the Helderin the Autumn seasons. very protective berg HK's beards. No wonder seniors stay “… No wonder of her owllets! at Nerina for three Since the Jacaranda So, on that dry note, I would seniors stay …” years to be able to trees blossom during Novem- like to conclude that Nerina is truly a blossom into the next ber Exam time, folklore in Pre- diverse and unique residence and that phases of their lives. toria (the Jacaranda City) has we should strive to keep it that way! To revive the original term established that, if a Jacaranda blos'HuisKomitee' (HK), Nerina works on a som falls on your head, you will do revised, innovative system as of 2013, well in exams. Since Stellenbosch only with an 'Nerina Community Coun- has Oak Trees, it is safer to stay in the cil' (NCC) instead of a HK. quad. Nerina is one the few resiOur proud mascot, our Nerina dences that host HIIT Fitness classes Bicycle has already been taken captive in the res itself. That way, when you thrice this year...maybe it's time for a need a breather from studies, you on- new lock. ly need to walk as far as rec hall. Nerina is the closest residence On the topic of our recreation- to the Coetzenberg Stadium, so it's al hall, our res is one of the only girls' safe to say that we are the most loyal residences that has a separate rec hall Varsity Cup supporters! to hold functions in. Lekkerrr! Nerina has a beautiful front We have one of the largest lawn that is ideal for picnics, catching groups of fist years, in comparison to up with friends - or lovers – or to just the other female residences; with enjoy the peace and quiet in nature. more than 100 girls! At Nerina, us girls tend to
By Celeste September Dear Diary
It has been two lonely, sad and depressing months since they left me. I lost a part of my self that day. I felt so empty and hollow inside. Thankfully that is all in the past now. I have found a new purpose and regained my happiness. I’m filled with laughter and excitement for the year to come and I know that 2018 will be my year. Late in January, old friends of mine came to visit. They were very excited and couldn’t stop speaking about the “new first years”. In the beginning, I had no clue what they were talking about till I realised it was almost time for welcoming week. Before I knew it, I felt whole again. I was brimming with joy and all sorts of expectations. There were so many possibilities for new beginnings and new friendships. I couldn’t contain myself. It was a difficult to transition from absolute isolation to being included in every event, but I loved it! I was the centre of conversation for days on end. They would compliment every part of me, from my physical appeal to my interior. I was referred to as “beautiful” on so many occasions that it brought colour to my drought of a life. It made me flourish in way I couldn’t even fathom, in December. Although I was ecstatic about my new friends, I couldn’t help but feel that there was something missing. It was as if only a part of me returned. I was so overwhelmed with joy that I hadn’t realised my oldest friends were still away on holiday. I missed them dearly and wished they would return as soon as possible. Before I knew it, my old companions had returned. They were so happy to see me before classes started but I could tell a few of them were worried about my state. They said I looked sad due to my lack of colour and I was “dried out”. They didn’t realise the difficult time I had trying to stay hydrated in this drought. It took its toll on me. They are currently trying their best to keep me healthy again and I really appreciate it. They are too good to me. I have recuperated considerably and am feeling more like myself these days. It amazing how your dearest friends can impact your life so greatly. I’m feeling so much better that we decided to move our annual family weekend forward. I was super excited for it. There were so many fun activities we had planned like movie night etc. I took part in as many as I was able but somethings I couldn’t do due to my inability to move. However, my amazing friends made me feel included by going out in my name. They all stood together as a single unit in the spirit of my being. We ended of a great weekend with a delicious breakfast and I got to see all my friends in the same room for the last time for a long time. It took all my self-control no to burst out in tears right then and there. I’m so grateful to have made all these memories and friendships these past months. I can’t wait to see what the future holds. Until next time Xoxo Nerina
Café Critic By Jana van der Westhuizen
A café that embodies a lifestyle of good food, beautiful people and stylish simplicity - Meraki. Meraki might be one of the girliest cafés in Stellenbosch, but what better café to catch-up with fellow Nerinas? Step out of the buzz on campus, and into this elegant, almost Parisian inspired gem. Food Indulge in classic French pastries and the famous eggs benedict, or build your own breakfast (student budget friendly) for the perfect start to any day. Quiet the growling tummies after that 12h00 class with a variety of power bowls, salads, toasties with a twist, or a beer braised brisket burger for those with a big appetite. Expect fresh and high quality ingredients elegantly put together on your
plate. Aaaand what is a café without its cakes? I personally have made it my objective to try out each and every sweet treat Meraki has to offer. I highly recommend the red velvet cheesecake, oreo chocolate ganache, and the coconut cake. Drinks Find your favourite caffeinated fix, have tea for two, or visit them at gin o' clock to please your tastebuds. Freshly squeezed raw juices and
smoothies are available for the health conscious or those in need of a vitamin boost. Service Friendly, quick, efficient and accomodative.
Meraki is most definitely an all-time favourite, and it's clear why. Their minimalistic decor, relaxed atmosphere, modern flavours and delicious
MERAKI | adj. origins greek to do something with love, creativity, passion and soul. it's when you love doing s o m e t h i n g s o m u c h , t h a t y o u p u t a p a r t o f y o u r s e l f i n t o w h a t e v e r y o u fi n d y o u r s e l f d o ing - it's the essence of your being; your soul will forever be connected (to it).
By Hesmari Basson
Stellenbosch has some of the finest restaurants in South Africa. There are a variety of cuisines to choose from. Here is a list of things to munch and sip on as a student in Stellenbosch.
Visit one of chef Bertus BasDine at a top restaurant son’s restaurants Save up to take someone speIf you’re not dining at Overcial to Overture at the Hidden ture, you can try The Deck at Valley Wine Estate. This resHidden Valley for incredible taurant is currently number views. Spek en Bone is perfect nine in the country. Or wait for tapas and wine. For a casuuntil your parents come to al burger and chips go to De visit and go to Jordan RestauVrije Burger, where you are rant, which is currently numentitled to a free draairoomys ber 14 in South Africa. with each burger.
Visit a food market Head to the Stellenbosch Slow Market on Saturdays between 9am to 2pm for anything from stroopwafels to free-range chicken. Visit the Blaauwklippen Family Market on Sundays between 10am to 3 pm for a diverse range of food and live music. The Root 44 Market is open every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm where you can enjoy pizza, locally crafted beer, roosterkoeke and sweet treats. .
Grab some pub grub Basic Bistro offers huge gourmet burgers with wafer fries. For a great vibe, visit Steam.
Enjoy great bread There is nothing like the smell of fresh bread. Boschendal at Oude Bank offers great breakfasts amazing bread. Before you leave, be sure to buy a freshly baked croissant for your roommate.
Go on a gourmet picnic at a wine estate Use the sunshine to your benefit and visit The Bakery at Jordan, The Greenhouse at Babylonstoren, Hartenberg Estate, Spier Farm Kitchen, Warwick Gourmet Picnics or Zevenwacht Restaurant, for an enjoyable picnic with your friends.
Do an intriguing wine pairing Enjoy a chocolate and wine Try South Africa’s national pairing at Waterford Estate. Have a breakfast feast wine varietal Have cupcakes with four differEnjoy a hearty breakfast in the Sample roosterkoek Head to Beyerskloof, the ent wines at Delheim or go for picturesque Jonkershoek at De Stomme Jonge is the perhome of Pinotage, to try the an ice cream and wine pairing Postcard Café. Or enjoy a glass fect place to try the traditional varietal in every form, includat Clos Malverne. Other opof bubbly with brunch at Toyeasty, braaied bread. ing in the legendary pinotage tions include pizza at Brenaiskara Delicatessen. burger sance Wine Estate and macarons at Blaauwklippen Vineyards.
A destination of enchantment By Jana van der Westhuizen
I am captivated in an alluring daydream as I stroll through the remarkable water city. The light and colour of Venice fascinates me and I am awestruck, gasping for breath. Arriving in Venice at the crack of dawn, I met a typical dark-featured, loudmouthed and kind-hearted Italian woman, Isabella, who insisted on guiding me through her hometown.
The renowned Piazza San clearly heard as we walked toward the Marco is a maze and the cobbled water channel. ground is covered in pigeons, that conceals the early spring sun rays. My After thanking and greeting whole body is enIsabella, it was time to degraved with pigeon “...immune to this part from the “City of My first step taken here is like claws as I feed them magnificence…” Dreams” with the urban walking into a different world, where with bread crumbs. I landscape so rich in overtime seems to freeze into delicate can almost smell the tranquillity… whelming lavishness. The line between snowflakes and greet you with a mystifantasy and reality seems to fade away cal laugh. Built entirely upon water its Inside shop windows a kaleido- in this picturesque city. streets are wide canals that run scope of masks decorated with feaththroughout the entire city. They carry ers, flowers, ribbons and symbols are While drifting on Venice’s people from one entranced building to displayed. The streets are filled with Grand Canal, a last sward of light lit the the next by way of the famous handtalented artists selling anything my twilight water before greeting me. I crafted gondolas that float on mind could imagine or the knew one could never become immune the water like giant fallen to this magnificence… “...quietly as heart could desire. leaves. No car horns, alarms or the rippling …” even squeaking brakes that Venetians' stomroar in my ears. Only peace achs growl and the resand quiet with a slight hum of the mo- taurants are filled to capacity like a tin tor boats whisking through the water of sardines. Mouth-watering spaghetti tinkles my senses. It is a place where bolognaise, lasagne, seafood, tortellini worries fade away as quietly as the rip- and focaccia bread as well as creamy, pling water, and fear is replaced with decadent gelato is devoured. The clinkadventure and opportunity. ing of cutlery and the clamouring of Italians with bursting stomachs are
By Lané Katzke
Welcome to the “HOW TO” column! Here, I regularly share with you lovely Nerinas my tips and tricks about all things I consider myself an expert at, as well as things I know absolutely nothing about. My mission is to venture into the world, gather intel, create holistic experiments and proceed to present my findings à la Andie Anderson from How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days. So, grab your pen and a note napkin and get ready to learn some cool things! Enjoy! In this edition’s HOW TO article, I exwill start peeking its head around the feel more like a juicy Steers burger? amine the ways in which you can gear corner any day now, you can expect Perhaps a tramezzini and ice cream up to beat the Saturday-night-alone-in- the weather to be a little chilly. But, from En Route? Or are you happy to res-blues, because let’s face it, we all there’s no need to fear – a lekker soft hop down to the COB for some Speckhave one of those nights every so ofpair of socks and maybe even your led Eggs? There are absolutely no rules ten. Whether your budget is a little too stretched hoodie will do just fine here. here. You can order in or bring the tight for hitting the town, or you’ve The next step is to create the goodies yourself. As long as you are had a really hectic week and cosiest atmosphere in your well-fed and your tummy is happy, I’m just want to relax after that “...a lekker room that you can. If you have happy as well. Economics test drained all «Pro tip: Hug in a Mug can soft pair of fairy lights, perfect! If you your motivation to be prodon’t, your study lamp will make your evening 10x better, so make socks…” work just as well. If you like, sure you stock up on those for a deliductive. I have got you covered when it comes to ensuryou can turn of the main light ciously creamy cup of love. ing that you won’t have to wish the for even more cosy. MOVIE TIME night away scrolling through your InThat’s right girl, go I don’t know about you, but I stagram feed and snacking sadly on and find all the cosy “...just a strange love nothing more than being your muesli for supper. you can! And finally, entertained while eating. Maybe habit …” So, without further ado, here prop up your pillows, it reminds me of the popcornare my top 5 tips on how to spend a snuggle into bed and and-movie combo at SterKi(fun) Saturday night in res: worm yourself between you blankets. nekor, or maybe it’s just a strange habGET COMFY Ahhh…pure bliss, my friends. it I picked up over the years. Whatever It’s time to (finally) put on that old FOOOOOD the case may be, I just thoroughly enoversized t-shirt in the back of you cup- Now, here is where you might have to joy a good meal paired with something board, pair it with your favourite jamdo some planning ahead of time. Noth- to watch at the same time. (Who says I mie pants and put your hair in the ing much, just ask yourself what you can’t multitask?) messiest bun you can master. Makeup are in the mood for. Are you craving So, here is where we will really is definitely not allowed. Since autumn some thick base Romans pizza? Do you start putting the “F” in fun!
If you have a hard drive with your fa“Love on the Sidelines”, “My Christa late night dip in the fountain. Experivourite series and movies, great! Go for mas Love” (Yes, they all have the word ment with microwavable puddings. Do it. If you don’t, ask around, someone in ‘love’ in the title), as well as the a workout session in the rec hall. Let res might be more than willing to lend “Aurora Teagarden” and “Murder, She your imagination run wild, and then you theirs. They might even throw in Baked” mysteries. (Their Christmas just run with it. As long as it’s not gosome new movie recommendations as movies remain the best, though). ing to get you in trouble with Auntie well. However, if you If Hallmark’s not your A ;-) are not too keen on rething, that’s fine too. If you SNOOZE FEST “...ladies of watching the same old get lucky, you’ll even find a If you are not one for all-nighters, like upstanding movies on your drive, few recent movies on there – me, you will know when the time is and you are just too cocitizenship…” just be prepared to search. right. When you’ve now had what you zy to get up and seek IT’S STILL EARLY!? could consider to be the best Saturday one, I have some insider scoop coming The food is finished, the movie has night of your life. When your last bits your way. ended. But it’s still not quite time for of energy seems to seep from you, We know that Fmovies, bed. Now what? No academic work will when you feel dreary and your eyes are 123movies, Putlockers and all the rest be touched tonight, so we need to find just too heavy to keep open any longof those online movie streaming web- some other ways to occupy ourselves. er. Then it is what I like to call sites are totally not okay, right? They If YouTube’s sidebar has lured “beautiful bedtime”… are illegal and here in Nerina, we con- you to watch another movie or the The great thing about tip #1 is sider ourselves to be ladies of upstand- next episode of Smallville, you’re cov- that it enables you to just fall into bed ing citizenship who will never ever ever ered. But if you need the way you are. Just a quick even think of doing something so atro- to turn your attention “...in trouble with brush of the teeth and a visit to cious. ;-) to something else for the loo and you are as good as Auntie A …” So, with that being said, my go- a while, here is what asleep. However, if the night to place to solve this little problem, is I’d suggest: was just too much fun to end it my dear friend YouTube. If you are unTurn up the music and have an off on such a boring note, I would sugaware, besides some decent quality impromptu jam session in your room. gest a sleepover – number of guests: movies and older series you can find on Start journaling. Read a book. Colour. one. there, YouTube has hundreds of HallDraw. Read up on things that interest Take your mattress to the rec mark movies for you to enjoy. Some you (places you’d like to visit, fashion hall, the toesitkamers, or even a study cheesy, some murder mysteries, some blogs, deep sea creatures…whatever room and have your own little advenreally good, and some just plain cringe- floats your boat). Leave random notes ture sleeping over someplace new. worthy. But, they are there and they for girls around res. Slide down the Who says a Saturday night will not hurt your Inetkey account at halls in your socks. Take a blanket and alone in res isn’t as much fun as a night all! Pretty great deal if you ask me! stargaze in the quad. Play a sneaky out in town? Some of my personal favourgame of knock knock in res (there are ites include “Love on the Slopes”, so many doors to choose from!). Take
A Regular Rubric By Mariechen Jordaan
"One day when I'm older..." I'm sure you said that phrase at least five times in your life. We all grew up having dreams for our I don’t know much about futures and meditating on the values such sites, but it always looks messy we want implanted in our lives... and not as if anyone actually knows some of us dreamt about becoming what is going on. It also feels as if the next Venus Williams while others construction sites are left abandoned still were caught up in for long periods of time bethe fantasy of pink “...little-you’s big fore someone comes to put fluffy unicorns dancaspirations…” everything in order again. ing on rainbows. When the workers To reach those dreams, we are working, all the little efforts flow told ourselves, that we have to make together to create one big process sacrifices. But somewhere along the and at the end of the day the team line we got it all wrong. Days are fly- has accomplished much more than ing by and without noticing, we are anyone can ever think. No one is ever living from weekend to weekend, completely sure what they are doing, forgetting to see the beauty in each yet everyone is giving their best in day. making this structure the best one I often liken our journey on they have ever made. this wonderous earth to a construcEvery day you lay a brick, tion site. Weird, hey? But when you sometimes 100. Other days we decome to think of it, it really makes a cide to destruct a whole wall and lot sense. start over on a stronger foundation.
So here we are… we may be on a construction site with dusty bricks scattered all around, clothed in torn overalls and not knowing when the next thing will fall out of the sky and hit our heads, but if we do everything according to the carefully sketched plans, there will not be need of worrying. ‘One day’ isn’t one day. ‘One day’ already started 10 years ago with little-you’s big aspirations. And you are continually living in it. Life is hard, but at the end, we can look back and see our perfectly built city. Do everything full-heartedly but remember to often go sit on one of the high buildings and look out on the city you are putting together.
YouR guide To geTTiNg SummeR-ReadY By Elsara van der Merwe
So each one of us want a quick fix summer body and some good looking legs for those winter jeans. But as you all know nothing that is a quick fix will last. That is why I rather propose that you do a little bit each day so that it is still enjoyable but makes that difference that you want. RULE ONE: drink a lot of water through the day! Warm-up 2 min skipping Sets (stomach) 15 x crunches 12 x bicycles 12 x commanders Repeat set 2-3 times as your fitness level improve
Sets (legs) 25 x squats 12 x jumping lunches Repeat set 2-3 times as your fitness level improves.
Cool down Plank on all 4 sides for 20 sec Repeat set 2-3 times as your fitness level improves. It just takes 30 min of your day and you will see the difference for sure!
Brutus blogging: Change your platform By Charlize Herman
So – I write a blog. A whole compilation of useless analogies and life metaphors that allows me to express my view on the world, and here I am – sharing some heart-spill with you. This is my heart, and if some of it doesn’t apply to you , please skim read , but if it does resonate with you I will be so glad. When I was asked to write a “bloglike forced to write your blog in a Brutus -but-Brutus” article the sudden fear article, you have to maintain your of change wrapped its claws around own writing style and ideas even my throat because of a simple though it is conveyed on a different change of platform. How many times platform. In life – we get tossed have you encountered around into different this very fear? A fear of directions often! New “...the life-metaphor- job, new degree, new the “unknown” as the making …” clichés would call it. friends … New platWho-ever said another forms. The key is to cliché of “change being like a holiretain your life-writing-style. Not to day” has maybe never experienced allow the new patterns of the new change, or a holiday completely. platform to redefine what you need Change is scary! But … inevitable. to and want to be. There is an art inAnd this is where the lifevolved in being adaptable alongside metaphor-making happens. If you are being authentic. Wees wie jy is, die
omgewing sal aanpas. Also – don’t be afraid of the new platform, embrace wat you can of the “not-so-holidayee-change”. You will be amazed by what you achieve when you adapt to and own your new platform by being justYOU. May you always accept the challenge to remain who you are, regardless of where you are placed. (And as I always say at the end of my blogs in Afrikaans: Mag dit reën op jou plaas , or May it rain on your farm. Till our next metaphorical meeting.
The first person to message Hannelize at 0766842361 with selfies with each of these items (as well as the room number you found it in), wina a complementary CottonOn voucher! Each photo is from someone in a different yeargroup. All the best!
All articles inside were written by girls currently residing in Nerina. Images were from Google or taken by one of the editorial team members.