You’re Never Too Old for a Treasure Hunt

By Lauren Woods

Every day, we pass numerous objects that we often overlook in our daily hustle and bustle. But what if those objects were something more? What if I told you that the objects you passed might be a part of a worldwide game of hide and seek? This game is called Geocaching, and it is possibly one of the most beautiful concepts I have ever heard of.

One may ask what this unusual word may mean. That person is in luck, because I have a definition! Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunt using GPS-enabled devices. Geocaching reminds me of the beauty in our world. I didn’t think that this wonderful activity would be at Baylor University, but boy was I wrong.

Here’s how you play:

  1. Download a geocaching app to find out the coordinates of a geocache.
  2. Look up the coordinates on your phone.
  3. Go to the coordinates and start searching!

There are geocaches everywhere! My roommate and I recently spent 30 minutes in search of a geocache which led to success. You just have to know where to look. The treasure you are searching for can come in different forms. It could be a box or a disguised container – you simply don’t know, and that’s part of the excitement. Once you find your hidden container, you must open it to see what treasures it holds – usually there is an object of some sort like a sticker, an army man or a yoyo. This object now belongs to you, but in return, you must replace it with something that represents you and sign the entry log. In an abstract way, you’re meeting someone for the first time through this treasure hunt. I encourage anyone and everyone to research geocaches in their area. It’s an awesome way to get outside and find yourself a real adventure!

Geocaching

 

Time for Fresh Air

By Joe Bridgeman

Spring semester always seems busier than fall semester although I have no idea why. I sometimes find myself forced to live day-to-day, wading through oceans of homework and responsibilities, hoping to catch glimpse of a weekend off in the distance. There are times when this is necessary in college. There are also times when this needs to be balanced out with something relaxing.

Aware of this, I spent a weeknight this past week playing volleyball on campus with some friends to unwind. The temperature felt great, the area was well lit and there were plenty of people around. Baylor’s campus has a lot of outdoor space for all sorts of activity, and it’s pretty safe at night. Here are some of the main spots for outdoor sports activity:

The Russell Field, located in front of the South Russell dorm, sports a large soccer field with goal posts, a sand volleyball court, picnic tables and a grill.

Fountain Mall, located in front of Moody Library, is a huge patch of grass about a block long. It’s ideal for playing ultimate Frisbee!

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Minglewood Bowl, located next to Brooks Residential College, is a popular spot. It sports a grill and a nice hill to sit on and watch whatever game is going on.  I’ve seen the Baylor Quidditch team practice here often!

The BSB Fields, located behind the Baylor Sciences Building, have A LOT of space. You can play soccer, football, rugby – you name it, there is room to play it. It also boasts a brilliant view of one of the most impressive buildings on campus, soccer goals, football field goals and even mini-bleachers.

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The night of volleyball was a success. I got to release stress by smashing my volleyball serves into the faces of the other team and got to hang out with some friends in a setting that wasn’t the library. When the semester gets busy, you need to take time to occasionally relax. College, like all things in life, is a balancing act.  Too much leisure time can be just as harmful as too much time studying!