If you're like me, November 1 through January 2 is the most magical time of the entire year. The baked goodies, beautiful decorations, and being home with my family all add up to my favorite season. However, I have noticed that since starting college, being home can be more stressful than it used to be. Not living at home has given me a sense of freedom, but it has also meant that tendencies and habits of my family that I was accustomed to now frustrate me more easily than they should. With a month-long break coming our way, I thought I would share some of my best tips for surviving being home during a long break.

1. Remember that seeing your family is now a rare treat.

For those of us who attend school hours away from the place we call home, breaks are really the only time when we are at our houses. While phone calls and Skype dates are great, real in-person communication has become treasured time. Just remember that it is going to be a long time before you will have to listen to your mom ask about your friends and boys, and love that she still cares enough to ask.

2. Plan fun things to do!

While sometimes it is scary to call up those old high school friends you have not seen in months, being busy will keep you from strangling your younger brother. So call that senior year BFF who, yes, has been so busy that she has not texted you in weeks and make plans to go see a movie. Your siblings and parents will thank you, and it is a great opportunity to rekindle friendships.

3. Avoid the urge to Netflix binge five shows.

I cannot argue that Netflix is most certainly the best thing to happen since sliced bread, just because you are home for break does not mean that you should lay around in bed all day long and watch all of "Grey's Anatomy." This is acceptable a few days a week, but you will regret it if you spend your entire break on your laptop.

4. Bring your to-do list.

You will not think about it while you are relaxing and enjoying your break, but dreadful school does exist and spring semester will be upon you before you can blink. To counter the beginning of semester panic that is bound to happen, create a to-do list of anything and everything you need to get done while on break. This can include reviewing the classes you are signed up for next semester, buying textbooks, and purchasing any last minute supplies you may have run out of last semester.The most important part is to get this list made before you leave for break. Once you are home, the motivation to get this done will rapidly deplete. Have it packed away before you jump in the car.

5. Have a blast.

Break, especially the extra long winter break, is meant for you to destress and relax between semesters. Pursue lots of things you enjoy that you never have time to do during school, and make the most of the unlimited free days you have. While preparing yourself for next semester and spending time with your family is invaluable, making time for yourself is really important too.

I hope everyone has a happy holiday season and enjoys their winter break as much as I do every year!