It appears that joyous time has come again. Hearts are bubbling over, brains are stressing about exams, and the wind howls outside every window. Yes, that beautiful thing we’ve all grown to know and love is finally here once more: December.

In the blink of an eye another semester has come and gone, and we find ourselves staring ahead to the promise land. A month of recovery at home, someone else to do your laundry, and a little extra loving to destress from months of agony. Sitting around a cozy fire with siblings, being questioned by relatives about your current relationship status, and the continuous checking to see if final grades have been posted from finals. Whether you celebrate the Christmas holiday or not, there is something magical in the air in December: joy.

Joy is a word with many faces and meanings to all. Seeing you indeed aced that exam you spent hours studying for, you did not burn the sugar cookies in the oven, and the realization fuzzy socks are an instant spirit lifter. December is riddled with the word joy, and the glee that comes with it is spread to all. Maybe it was donating to the Salvation Army worker dressed up as Santa. Or possibly it was playing with the dogs at the humane society. Perhaps it’s somewhere with the volunteers caroling down the street. Definitely it can be seen in the looks from your friends during present exchanges. Joy, jubilation, euphoria, bliss, or whatever you may choose to call it, it’s there.

This December month, take the time to sit back and find your joy. With finals and homework and goodbyes, it is easy to forget such a special word during a special time. No one can be chipper and bright-eyed like Buddy the Elf all the time, but there’s no shame in learning a thing or two from the man whose favorite thing to do is smile. With a pinch of positivity, a dash of good humor, and plenty of chocolate chip cookies, you could have the ultimate recipe for December joy.