The magical snow at W&L has melted, and it is dank, boring, and grey outside. All of the colorful leaves are gone. Classes have finished their mindless syllabus days, and they are almost in full academic swing. Ugh. As a Southerner, freshman, and Frozen-lover who has experienced snow very few times, I would love if it could snow again!

I checked the forecast five times this morning, and it looks like Lexington won't get any more geometrically unique snowflakes for over the next ten days. Just 30-40 degree weather and rain. Darn. And spring is far, far away.

Here are seven fun ways to cheer up in the winter season:

1. Go to winter sport events.

W&L swimming had its senior meet on Saturday, 1/14! It was the last meet in Cy Twombly Pool. Check out the Gennies' athletics website for upcoming sports events you can attend.

2. Check out LexCo's peppermint hot mocha.

It is seriously delish. I got it four times during final's week last December. It will make any cold, drab day feel like a winter wonderland.

3. Change up study locations.

Sometimes Leyburn can get old. I like to find study areas with a lot of windows. The second floor of CGL has plenty of natural light and the Tea House is right below. There's also a huge window in Wilson Hall in Lenfest Center that features several trees.

4. Plan a fun Washington Break.

Go skiing at Snowshoe Mountain, or head over to New Orleans for Mardi Gras. The best parades are during the Thursday, Friday, and Saturday of the break. (One of the Thursday parades even throws glittery shoes!)

5. Attend Greek or other group events to meet new people.

If you have finished rush or are going through pledgeship, there will be a lot of parties and mixers going on! There are many other opportunities to meet more cool people on campus, as well.

6. Find something fascinating about each class you are taking.

I'm taking Physics 112 this semester, and so far it is really interesting! We're currently learning about electric fields and electric dipoles, or two point-like charges of equal magnitude and opposite sign. Who knew the total force of dipoles in uniform electric fields is zero?

7. Try out something new this semester.

Bring a friend over to the gym and play racquetball or badminton. Or go listen to and support the University Singers. Explore the stores and restaurants of Lexington. (I've been wanting to try out Sweet Treats.) Or go on a long walk and contemplate the mountain ranges. The world is your oyster (whatever that means).

Happy January and may 2017 be ever in your favor!