Enjoying the Sprint to Christmas

We are into December, and with that comes the annual sprint to Christmas. Somehow, this time of year seems to creep up on us, but once it arrives, things kick into overdrive, both academically and in life in general. As such, it can be easy to get swept up in the relentless holiday tidal wave, but finding ways to turn the sprint into more of a brisk — figuratively and literally — walk will allow you to enjoy what many call the most magical time of the year.

Here are some suggestions of things you can do to make the most of this hectic time of year.

1. Wrap up loose ends on projects and papers and create a finals week schedule

If you still have work to do on any final projects or papers, now is the time to wrap up those loose ends. Putting them off until the last possible minute is a good way to not produce your best work. Additionally, creating a schedule for your finals week is a good idea. Speaking from unfortunate experience, the last thing you want to have happen is missing an exam because you do not remember correctly when that exam is.

2. Spend time with friends before leaving for break

Perhaps you can combine this with one of the coming suggestions to check two items off the list at once, or maybe you have other fun holiday-themed things you enjoy doing, but regardless, enjoying each other’s company before going your own ways for break is important.

3. Enjoy some Christmas music and movies

This is a great way to get into the holiday spirit. Maybe you are busy studying for exams and decide to play some Christmas music in the background, or maybe you take a break from your studies and get some friends together for a Christmas movie or two. Both of these are also things you can enjoy once you are home for the break.

4. Embrace the weather

Even though winter weather can be an inconvenience at times, the weather in December can make for good opportunities to enjoy God’s creation. If there is a good snowfall, building a snowman — or even a snow Norm if you are up for a challenge — is a good way to enjoy the outdoors.

6. Don’t forget your Christmas shopping

Of course, with Christmas quickly approaching, you likely still have some gift shopping to do. For those looking for HU-themed gifts, the HU Bookstore has plenty of options to choose from. HU-themed gifts will often be a winner in the eyes of parents and grandparents, and having the bookstore at your fingertips on campus is a great way to cross off some gifts from your shopping list in a highly convenient fashion.

The end of the semester can be a stressful time, but taking time to reflect on the holiday season is a great way to stay in the moment as we make our final push of the semester. Finish strong and happy holidays, Foresters!