I am sure a lot of people have been reading and writing articles about finals week, such as how to study or how to just get through the week ahead. But what about when you are finally done with finals and you have an entire month without classes, homework, essays, or tests? For anyone who does not know what to do with that much time on their hands here are six ideas for a successful Winter Break.

1) Read

I know I personally do not have a ton of time to read during the school year so when I have the chance I absolutely take advantage of it. For me, this can mean reading a book that has been on my "to be read" list for months or rereading one of my favorite series.

2) Bake

The holiday season is one of the best times to try out new recipes or finally perfect one of your own. Not only do all of the cookies, bread, bars, muffins, candies, or pies taste good, but they leave your house smelling phenomenal

3) Christmas Lights

I may be picky about what kind of lights I like (white only), but driving all over town looking at Christmas lights with my family is something I have done for as long as I can remember. IT is the perfect time to just put on your pajamas, grab a blanket, drink hot chocolate and look at all the pretty houses that have been decked for the holiday season.

4) Friends

With all of my friends away at college, breaks are some of the only times I really get to see them and catch up. This can be as simple as going out to lunch once or spending the entire break at one another's houses. Whatever it is you do, make sure that you make time to see your friends because who knows when the next opportunity will come.

5) TV Shows

Just like with reading, I never seem to have enough time to catch up on my favorite shows. Winter break is the best time to put on your pajamas, grab the popcorn, and just veg out at the television binge watching whatever you want to and the best part is you do not have to feel guilty about sleeping until noon the next day.

6) Volunteer

One thing I want to do this break is work at the Humane Society here in Colorado Springs. But that is only one option. You can go to a soup kitchen or an elderly home. The possibilities are endless and it can really make a difference in someone's holiday season.

Most importantly, enjoy your time off because it will not last forever. Good luck on your finals and may you have a remarkable Winter Break!