By Tillie Moore
Last Friday I wandered away from Eugene for the long weekend. I shelled out my portion for an Airbnb in Waldport, OR, and chipped in for a fabulous group dinner. After homemade pesto and garlic bread, the brightest sunset ever, constellation watching, and sandy, saltwater jeans, I realized that somewhere along the way I lost my wallet.
As a frugal college student, spending money never invokes the best feeling in me. Even worse, after noticing someone that was not me had used my card to buy sushi, I had to cancel my debit card and freeze my bank account. As I agonize over the arrival of my new card, here are some of the free (and low-priced) things I’m going to be doing in the next few weeks.
A fun night out: Eugene has opportunities for open mics, comedy shows, and trivia. If one is not up your alley, just go to another. The coolest thing about open mics is you can sing, play an instrument, read a poem, or just go to listen. Each of these options is typically free of charge. Here’s a link to see upcoming options.
Check out a new hike:
While many of us have heard of Spencer’s Butte, there are many other beautiful hikes around our community. One of my favorites is the Ribbon Trail right off of Hendrick's Park. The 1.7-mile walk is close to campus, but never too crowded. I always like the peaceful change of scenery.
Release your inner child:
No matter where you are on campus, University Park is no more than a 20-minute walk. There's a basketball court, a large field to relax or run on, and a baseball diamond. My personal favorite, however, is the swings.
Friday night dancing:
While the Saturday Market is closed for the winter, there is something new and exciting at the 5th Street Market. Bailamos Latin Dance Network is hosting free Latin dance classes on Fridays. Check out their Facebook for more info.
My last two options are ones I plan on doing once I unfreeze my bank account. Budgeting or not, these are awesome choices.
Thrifting:
Eugene and Springfield have many St. Vinnie’s options. My personal favorites are the locations on 199 Q St, Springfield, and 705 S Seneca Rd, Eugene. The large stores have items spanning from fun lamps and old magazines to cool hats and warm jackets. There is even a rack for clothes under $5, where I got one of my favorite pairs of jeans. If you donate clothes, you are rewarded with 20% off your purchase.
Day trip:
While a bit of a trek, if you’re interested in a snow sport, the University of Oregon helps you go to Hoodoo Ski Resort for cheap. An all-day adult pass costs $65, but through the University’s Outdoor Barn you can get a voucher for $48.
While I struggle to get my new driver's license, debit card, and wallow over the lost Christmas money in my wallet, I am thankful for the opportunities that surround this gorgeous college campus. Hopefully, some of these free and budgeted options sound as exciting to you as I find them.
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