With only two more weeks left of the semester, this is the most joyous and stressful of times. Freedom is right around the corner, but with one major road block: FINALS. For some, this word is just another part of college and simply means a few weeks of hard work is ahead. For others, who aren't as mature or put together, (which honestly, is NONE of us) that word invokes fear, anxiety, and maybe (definitely) even several tears. For the latter group, do not fear. Although this may be a dreaded season of illness, overnights in the library, and disappointing our parents; there are still several reasons to be happy and enjoy life. Here are 9.

1. Puppies 

Now, don't get me wrong, puppies are always a reason to smile and love life. However, during finals puppies are the key to sanity. What is better than hugging a cute, fluffy, baby animal after you just spent 30 minutes crying because you don't understand math? NOTHING. Most colleges partner with the local Humane Society or Therapy Dogs, and have several areas on campus where you can decompress and focus on nothing but the sweetest creatures on Earth. So, be on the lookout for events like these, and have a moment of peace and happiness in between studying and more studying.

2. Ordering Take Out Every Night Is 100% Acceptable 

When you are up at all hours of the night cramming an entire semester worth of information into one little study guide, sustenance is a necessity. Thank goodness for College Towns with 10 plus restaurants that will deliver to your dorm or library at all hours of the night. Normally, you may feel guilty ordering a large pizza with a side of mozzarella sticks at 2 am on a Tuesday night, but during finals, there is no shame. So, order away and devour as much food as you can, because balanced meals are SO overrated.

3. The Future Shows You Will Finally Have Time To Watch 

Even though Netflix may be the last thing on your mind right now, there is nothing more exciting than the idea that in just a few days it will be at your disposal for an entire month. Winter Break is a time to sit back, relax, and finally binge watch all the shows people have been talking about. I recommend Love Sick, Black Mirror (save yourself and skip the first episode though), and oldies but goodies like The Office, One Tree Hill, and Gilmore Girls. Also, don't forget to look at all the Disney Throwbacks that were recently added like, Cadet Kelley, Sky High, The Lizzie McGuire movie, and many more.

4. Christmas 

Whether you celebrate this holiday or not, you must admit that Christmastime is the most magical time of the year! From beautiful light displays and endless hot chocolate, to the overwhelming spirit of joy and fuzzy feelings; Christmas is definitely something to look forward to! So, while you're hitting the books, make time to listen to some Holiday Music and perfect that Christmas list, because it'll be here before you know it!

5. This Adorable Animal

Look at that face! If this doesn't make you smile, then there is no hope for you and you'll probably be sad forever. #SorryNotSorry

7. Sleep

For those of you who have forgotten, this happens at night when you close your eyes for a full EIGHT hours, and wake up feeling rested and ready to go. While this probably won't be happening until your last final is over, sleep will be in abundance over Winter Break. If you're lucky, you may even be able to sleep more than eight hours, in a normal sized bed, in a room meant only for you. So, stay strong, all those A's (maybe D's) will be turning into Z's in no time.

8.Home

Once the stress of finals is over, we will all be packing up and heading home. There will be four full weeks of no school, no professors, no assignments. Nothing. It will be a time of relaxing, catching up with friends and family, and hopefully replenishing the bank account that you emptied during first semester. The reward of Winter Break is well worth the Hell of finals week.

9. You're Getting An Education

Although you may be stressed and ready for a break, we are all lucky enough to be getting an education and should be grateful. Many aren't afforded the opportunity of going to college and having a direct path to bettering themselves, but we are. So, the next time you think this is all for nothing, or can only think of the negatives about school, just remember; it is a privilege not a right. Be thankful for this opportunity, and try your best to get the most out of the time you have.