Finals are over and Winter break has officially begun--finally. For some of us, this semester zipped by faster than Santa and his reindeer, but for others, this break couldn't have came soon enough. Winter break is that deep breath after finals week that we all need before heading into another stress-filled semester (and let's be honest, Spring semester isn't as fun). This highly anticipated break and the holiday season brings about a lot of emotions. Here are 7 thoughts we've all had going into Winter Break:

1. I get to see my family.

Family is the biggest blessing, and moving away to college can bring about separation anxiety for many. The holidays are a great time to catch up with family and spend quality time without any stress. This is personally what I look forward to most about Winter Break.

2. I get to see my dog.

A close second to reuniting with family is getting to see your pet. There's nothing more pure than the love your pet has for you and how excited her or she gets when you walk through the door returning from college. Make sure to give your pet a lot of lovin' this holiday season.

3. New memories with old friends.

Heading back home for Winter break also means getting to see old high school friends, or for some of us, people we grew up with our whole lives. This can be pretty exciting - getting the gang back together over the holidays is always trouble, but never short of amazing.

4. Presents!

We all say that family and friends is the best part of the holiday season, which is true, but the presents are pretty exciting as well. I'm not only talking about receiving either, giving presents and going holiday shopping can be pretty fun as well - it's a great way to get in the holiday spirit.

5. Holiday movie marathons.

If you haven't being indulging in holiday movies and music already, I'm sure your break will be full of pajama marathons with your family and friends that are worth waiting for all year.

6. New Year's Eve!

One of the best nights of the year: New Year's Eve. New Year's is always exciting because it's a chance to start fresh and look forward to the future. In UCF students' cases, maybe even ring in a Peach Bowl Championship in Atlanta this year. Charge On!

7. No studies and no waking up early.

Winter break is that refresher we all need after a hectic semester, and it sure is nice to be able to sleep in your old bed with no assignments due or morning class to wake up for. Pure bliss.

This break, take time to catch up with family and friends, indulge in your favorite holiday activities, and get some quality relaxation that we all need.