Turkey Term: the glorious few weeks spent at school between the November Thanksgiving break and the December holiday break. Only three weeks of school stand before you and the glorious season of finals week. And then, home for another break and the best time of the year! But before then, we must celebrate this merry time of the year by having a dashing Turkey Term. Here's how:
1. Wish for snow
Do a dance, send up prayers to your God, put a cold spoon under your pillow, turn your pajamas inside out. Whatever your snow day superstition is, do it. Snow will bring the prettiest views of Lexington and get everyone into the holiday spirit, not to mention the potential cancelling of classes.
2. Take a trip to Blue Ridge Parkway
As the weather changes, so does the sky. This means the view from the Parkway or one of your other favorite lookout spots is sure to look different than it did a couple weeks ago. Bring a blanket and a (special) friend and cozy up.
3. Take a holiday pic
Who says holiday cards are only for families? Grab your best friends, your squad, your gal pals, your bros and take a picture together. Wear ugly Christmas sweaters, sit on Santa's lap, build a snowman: the opportunities are endless. Make that picture something hilarious or super "aww"-inspiring (aka something other friend groups are jealous of). Don't forget to post to insta to rack up the likes.
4. Decorate!
'Tis the season and the best way to beat the finals week blues is to be surrounded by holiday cheer. Studying for finals can't be that bad if you're constantly reminded that Santa and presents and your own home is only a few days away. Maybe even make a night out of decorating your house or hall with friends. Grab some age appropriate beverages (eggnog?) and play your favorite Christmas album. Invite your friends over to join you for a decorating soirée.
5. Bake. A lot.
Cookies, cookies, cookies. Need I say more? Maybe add cookie baking to the agenda for your decorating party with pals.
6. Study (ew).
This one isn't very fun, but the honorable student in me felt the need to throw this in there. Finals week does stand between you and the holiday break. Going home to parents and the holiday season will feel much better knowing that you aced (or maybe at least passed) all your finals.
7. Go to a winter sports game
With the turn of the season comes the time for new Gennies athletes to hit their stride. Fall sports may be over, but competitions have revved up for all our winter teams. Luckily for you, you can go support the Gens in the warmth of Doremus, whether it be on the court or at the pool.
8. Secret Santa
Organize a little Secret Santa gifting with your friend group or hall or pledge class. Although the gift of giving is pretty great, it is also pretty nice to receive. A little Secret Santa action can surely put a smile on your face before the dread of finals. Google an online Secret Santa generator, set a price limit, and hit Walmart or Amazon for your person.
9. Hit the bookstore
Awesome deals at the campus bookstore around the holiday times! Use those discounts wisely and buy up those t-shirts, hats, mugs for all your relatives. Already bought WLU apparel for your family over the last two Christmases? No worries, the bookstore gets newer and better things every year, and you can use this to tell Mom and Dad just how much you love this school. My theory: one can never have enough Gennies apparel and giftware, especially with the investment your parents are probably making on this place! Even better, with those holiday sales, grab yourself that nice quarter zip or Vineyard Vines shirt that you've been eyeing in the bookstore all year. The holiday season is all about giving, so give a little to yourself too.
10. Holiday party
Look out for those emails about holiday themed parties. Everyone loves a frat party with Santa hats and ugly sweaters. Just remember to be on best behavior or you risk Santa flying right by your house this winter...
