For me, the beginning of a new semester brings only one question to mind: what’s something new and exciting I can indulge in? Florence is a great place for all the tree-huggers, wine connoisseurs, rebel wannabes and creative folk alike. Basically, if you have an interest, there’s a group for you.

For my foodie friends and me, the adventure is in the kitchen. With sticks of butter in hand and Paula Deen accents perfected, cooking is the creative outlet we crave. Even with just mayonnaise, a Snickers bar and a moldy orange in my fridge, I’m searching for ways to prepare a feast.

Because time is a rare luxury in college, and because cooking is certainly time consuming, going out to eat bides my creative urges for a freshly prepared meal. For me, relaxation is a fork in my hand and a tighter-than-a-tick stuffed belly. Which brings me to my next topic of discussion: what is the freshman 15?

The freshman 15 is a myth. For me, it was the freshman 10, then the sophomore 20. Those 30 pounds I have gained each tell a different story — stories in which I would never think twice to replace. The good Lord and a beat up ole’ Ford taught me to love the land and everything on it (as long as it’s fried, of course).

The freshman 15, to a medical expert, might be the end of humanity as we know it, but to me, it’s an excuse to step away from my academic endeavors, jump into a world of familiarity and indulge in gluttoral glory.

What can I say? I like to eat. One of my favorite quotes by George Bernard Shaw reads, “There is no love sincerer than the love of food.”

Not everyone is subject to the freshman 15. For some, it’s like the lochness monster, peeking its head above water, just viewing what the outside world looks like, and then descending into a hidden gorge to keep from being seen.

My advice to all incoming freshmen is to explore the plethora of dining options this wonderful corner of the state has presented to us. That advice pertains to all returning students as well.

That being said, skip the McDonald’s, Burger King and Taco Bell runs and begin discovering your many local eatery options here in the Shoals.

Now that prom, senior pictures and bikini-wearing weather are all over, slide your belt down a notch and join me in search of the ultimate meal.