February 2004 (v6 i4)
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Women exploring knitting, cooking, subordination
Search for perfect Crock-Pot tops "to-do" lists
by Christie Young, Staff Writer

This knitter for a comfy scarf.
CAMPUS — The women's movement, having rarely been considered a dominant force in modern society, is now experiencing a resurgence as local women explore their roles and opportunities as females. Young women around Austin have recently been seen taking part in trends dating back to before the Women's Liberation of the 1950s, such as knitting, flower arranging, and making sure that dinner is on the table by six.

Many college women have expressed that the combination of studying and dating has led to a colossal amount of stress where tension headaches and crankiness are unavoidable. However, many of these newfound hobbies serve as creative outlets, relieving women of both unwanted aggravation and free time.

"Me and my girlfriends like to get together between classes and share what we're working on," said Lindsey Sims. "Right now Julie's knitting another scarf, Sophie's cross-stitching this cute little poodle, and I'm working on a new meatloaf recipe for my boyfriend, Brad."

"I really think it's important for men and women to have their separate realms," reported Betsy Nickels. "That's why I just adore arranging flowers; not only does it relieve stress, but it makes for a nice centerpiece when I make William that chicken parmesan he likes so much."

Women across campus agree that rather than taking a step forward in this hold-nothing-back society, a step back towards lady-like activities is more appropriate. Joining the common drum circles found throughout the South Mall, quilting circles are beginning to earn their own reputation as the dominant leisure activity around campus. These new circles, typically seen between classes and on sunny afternoons, are for the most part supported by male students.

Most of the women who have chosen to partake in the growing trends admit that the discipline that accompanies hours of stitching intricate designs and following recipes to the exact teaspoon is downright enjoyable.

"I think it's fantastic that I never have a moment to spare," Julie Meyers said. "What's really nice is that I have a schedule every day, and if I don't stick to it, my boyfriend doesn't let me pleasure him. Now that's incentive!"

"If Julie can find the time to refine her sewing skills between her Children's Literature class and cleaning up our apartment, more power to her," said her boyfriend, Tom McAllen. "I'm just so glad she's not like some of those bizarre progressive girls who carry CD players and wear eyeliner."

The popularity of such neoclassical trends has grown considerably over the past month. No longer are girls flocking to Nordstrom in hot pursuit of the latest Prada bag, but rather they're swarming area Wal-Marts in search of yarn in shades of Golden Willow or Midnight Sapphire. Scarf-clad women can be seen in nearly every classroom, showcasing their over-sized, cable-knit masterpieces, as their friends scour the UGL computers for green bean casserole recipes.

"Sometimes my fingers bleed after I've been doing needle-work for a while, but Brad won't allow me to let a tiny injury get in the way of my progress," Sims said. "He always says, 'quitters die young,' and I'm sure as heck no quitter!"

"I'm just so fortunate to have a guy like Brad who understands my wants and needs as a woman in this day and age," Sims explained. "He's so considerate of my hobbies and passions. Just yesterday, he let me come over to make love to him, and then he let me fix him a ham sandwich and reorganize the refrigerator. Does it get any better than this?"
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