It's the end of November and the only thing on the minds of college students is going home and getting away from the stress of school for a few days. It's the small break we have to catch our breath for a bit before we push our way to the end of the semester.

Teachers love to take this opportunity to remind us that, even though we're about to have a break, finals are rapidly approaching and this is the "final stretch." Every teacher I've ever had has used that phrase.

I often feel very stressed the week before Thanksgiving break. I'm thinking about all of the things I'll have to do when I get back, all of the projects, tests, and the stress leading up to finals. The tendency to slack off is heightened, the motivation to get things done is diminished, and the countdown to the exact time your parents are picking you up to go home is getting more and more intense.

The week before Thanksgiving is also a time where you can't stop thinking about all of the wonderful aspects of going home and celebrating this holiday; the food, family, getting to relax and sit on your couch. Seeing friends from home is also something I look forward to very much when I go home for Thanksgiving break. I've come home with my two good friends for the last two years and this is also something I love about this holiday; I've been able to share the experience of having dinner with my family with two of my best friends.

Thanksgiving is a short but much needed holiday in the middle of a crazy winter semester. It's a time to remember that there's more to life than exams, proficiencies, and staying up all night to get homework done. It's a time to appreciate family, good food, and all of the things we should be grateful for year round.