C'mon we've all been there: finals are finally over, you were so excited to go home and sleep but two days into break and... now what? After the stress of college we could all use a few days to rest and recover. But after that, you're gonna be pretty bored if you spend your entire break on the couch.
1. Go on holiday-themed outings
These can be really cheesy and are often meant for little kids but if you just accept that you can actually have a lot of fun! I live in Portland, OR and I love going to see the Christmas lights at the zoo!
2. Read a book
This one's pretty obvious, but never underestimate the power of a good book. Grab a cup of coffee or hot cocoa and curl up in a cozy spot to read-- now doesn't that sound nice?
3. Bake cookies
What's more welcoming than entering a house to be greeted by the smell of fresh, home made cookies? Make them for friends or family or just devour them all yourself! And no excuses if you have dietary restrictions-- I'm allergic to eggs and generally try to avoid dairy and refined sugar and I've still found some pretty delicious cookie recipies! Also if you are weird and don't like sweet things, you could make a savory snack like roasted nuts.
4. Volunteer
Get in the spirit of giving and find a way to help out your local community! I found this great place where I help out with horseback riding lessons for people with disabilities. There are lots of unique places like this where you can have really rewarding experiences!
5. Learn a new skill
Whether it be something artistic like drawing or photography or something more practical like learning to change a tire, take advantage of not being super busy to do something you've always wanted to learn how to do! I'm not saying you'll be perfect at it by the end of your winter break, but you could get a pretty good head start if you really dedicate yourself!
6. Hangout with old (and new) friends
Is there someone who you haven't talked to in a while and want to reconnect with? This could be your chance!
7. Pamper yourself
You won't always have this much time on your hands, so take advantage of it. Take a hot bath, give yourself a mani-pedi or put on a face mask, sleep in-- whatever you need to do to feel good and relaxed.
8. Enjoy the snow (if you have it)
What's more classic than building a snow man and making snow angels? If you're really ambitious you could try for a snow cave or an igloo. Skiing and snow-shoing are also great. If you live in a non-snowy place, you have my condolences.
9. Make home made gifts (and they don't have to be for Christmas)
Even if you or your friends don't celebrate Christmas, everyone enjoys nice things right? You could cook something like granola or apple sauce, go the arts-and-crafts route and make some homeade Christmas ornaments, even try your hand at some cosmetic products like lip balm or hand salve (I hear bath bombs are all the rage right now). Home made candles are also fun.
10. Be outdoorsy
Go on a hike or a nature walk or even just a picnic! Enjoy some quality time in nature-- it's good for you.
