This will be my last winter break of undergrad. It's not actually a big deal or something most people think about, but being that it's a last, I've decided I'll make it special. My first winter break consisted of me sitting on one of my couches watching "Merlin" day and night... That was all I did besides eat and sleep. Another winter break I gave myself the goal to write 10 songs. I did, they weren't all good but at least I was productive. This one will be a little different since I have a job, but I am determined not to work it all away. I deserve this break after the semester I've had.

So folks, here are my plans for winter break. Maybe it'll inspire you to make actual plans of your own. I've said this in the past and have never actually done it, but I will let you guys know after break how much of it I've actually done.

1. Finish "Merlin"

I know I said I watched it day and night... and I did. So much so that I would look it up and I found out major characters die at the end and my little heart couldn't take it... However it's been three years. It's time.

2. Give Back

I want to do something good this season. Whether it's donating clothes or volunteering, this girl is gonna get into the season of giving.

3. Practice an instrument

I read music and play piano and clarinet. However, I'm extremely rusty and want to improve.

4. Write Something

Sketches for SNL at Rider in the Spring, songs for my so far unreleased albums, a novel, a play, poems for my so far unreleased anthology of poetry, essays for grad school... any of these things. All would be ideal but I know myself.

5. Spend time with relatives I don't see often

You see them during holidays but not so much during the other days of the year. And I have a car now so... Grandma, Grandpa, I'm coming over for dinner

6. Movie Nights

It's a staple among my at home friend group to get together at my house and "watch" movies... more like the movies watch us but it's fun and will happen.

7. Go somewhere I've never been

A restaurant or just anywhere that is new. Because why not.

8. Try out some new recipes

If I have free time I'll try out some new recipes. Some healthy things, some not so healthy. I love to cook and bake so I'll definitely enjoy it.

9. Exercise

Lastly, since I'll be cooking new things, I should exercise. I enjoy working out so it's not a problem. I remember though that I didn't gain the freshmen 15 at school... I did, however, go back to school a little rounder after sending my time on the couch and eating...

So there you have it. Simple but if I don't plan out my time sometimes I do nothing with it. I know some of you are guilty of that too. I hope you all have a great break and do exceptionally well on all finals. Happy Holidays

Food for Thought: Don't waste these breaks doing nothing. There will come a time when you won't have scheduled breaks and you will long for them.