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Pappy's Picks: Full day of fuel

By Anna Papakirk

Pappy's Picks: Full day of fuel

Want a movie rec? Need a new hobby or activity? Craving a sweet treat? With so many decisions and too many options in this world, allow me to help you make your pick.

Hi! My name is Anna "Pappy" Papakirk, although only a select few from back home actually call me "Pappy." I'm a junior in Branford studying economics and history. When I'm not in class -- or doing my favorite activity: writing for the WKND desk -- you can find me exploring. I love trying new things, whether that be discovering new places on campus, feasting at the restaurants of New Haven or watching a binge-worthy show. And when I come across anything that I truly enjoy or find something that achieves can't-live-without status, I want to share it with all of you. Trust me, I'm not gate-keeping any of my favorites.

That's why "Pappy's Picks" will give you suggestions to help you maximize your days and find the little things that can bring you joy. Without further ado, take your pick.

Since coming to college, I've learned that my most valuable, and scarce, resource is my time. On any given day, there exists an endless stream of tasks -- attending class, completing assignments, working out, doing laundry -- and never enough time. Unfortunately, in all the hustle and bustle of college life, mealtime often gets the short end of the stick.

Given this time constraint and my desire to maximize utility (micro students, sound familiar?). I am constantly on the search for quick and convenient food options that don't skimp on flavor or nutrition.

This week, I'm sharing three products -- a breakfast, a bite and a beverage -- that deliver on a full day of fuel that's fast and flavorful.

Breakfast: Trace's Oats

I know many students prefer not to eat breakfast because they would rather get an extra 30 minutes of sleep. No judgement to those people, but that simply could never be me. Breakfast is my favorite meal, and if I skip it, my entire day is derailed. Nevertheless, I've found a way to get an extra half hour of sleep AND still eat a nutritious breakfast in the morning all thanks to Trace's Oats.

A few years ago, I started following Trace at @tracesoats on Instagram. He posts delicious oatmeal recipes and eventually started his own business selling overnight oats. As an overnight oat enthusiast, I was intrigued, so naturally I placed an order.

All I can say is that they are the G-OAT -- Greatest OATs. Packed with 15 grams of protein per serving, they come in four delicious flavors: blueberry muffin, maple vanilla walnut, strawberry milk and my personal favorite, brownie batter. Each one tastes like dessert, and I'm t-oat-tally here for it. Plus, it takes me approximately two minutes to make them. All they require is emptying the oat packet into a container, adding milk and placing it in the fridge to settle overnight.

Bite: Lentiful Instant Lentils

Nothing screams college kid meal like instant ramen and microwaveable mac and cheese. They cover the "ABCD" bases: accessible, budget-friendly, convenient and delicious. But, if you're looking for something a little more nutritious -- something that gets the parent stamp of approval -- there's a new instant food in town that's bound to impress any mother -- and she may even start making it for dinner, too.

"Did you just say lentils?" she'll ask.

"Yes, mom. Yes, I did. They're called Lentiful Instant Lentils."

I first discovered Lentiful over the summer when I was looking for quick and easy meals to pack for lunch at work. All I had to do was add water to the cup and pop it in the microwave, just like our good ol' friend microwave mac and cheese.

While Lentiful cups cover the "ABCDs," they also hit the coveted protein and fiber nutrients that I'm always trying to add into my diet. And the flavor options are varied. Depending on what mood I'm in, there's a Lentiful that will satisfy the craving for any cuisine, and they make me feel as though I am eating a luxury meal. I love the French mirepoix, Thai coconut curry and tomato bolognese.

Beverage: Liquid IV Hot Chocolate

I do an inadequate job of staying hydrated during the winter. The thought of drinking a cold glass of water in this frigid New Haven weather sends shivers down my spine. Nevertheless, I find myself feeling unbelievably thirsty throughout the day. That was until I found my new before-bed beverage: Liquid IV Hot Chocolate.

I think most of us are familiar with Liquid IV, whether we're an athlete who drinks it to replenish the electrolytes lost from sweat or a frat-lete who has been encouraged by a friend to drink a packet after a night out. Either way, a packet of Liquid IV can do wonders. Yet, I had never heard of their hot chocolate until my roommate told me she saw it at Walgreens and inspired me to make the purchase.

What the Liquid IV is lacking in that "first sip feeling" of a Starbucks holiday drink, it more than makes up for with the convenience and coziness of cocoa in bed. And honestly, I was pleasantly surprised by the flavor. Since the packet is meant to be used with water rather than milk, it is more watery than a typical cup of hot cocoa, but it has the added benefit of hydration. Don't be fooled by the brand name, it does not taste like the traditional salty Liquid IV we are accustomed to. It's the perfect blend of sweet and soothing, providing a fun way to stay hydrated.

From breakfast until bedtime, staying nourished and hydrated is the difference between a two-naps-and-missed-class day and an aced-the-exam-and-had-time-to-blow-out-your-hair day. If you're trying to do more than survive -- would it be ambitious to say thrive? -- during the school year, these treats are must-eats.

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