As winter break comes to a close, many students heading back to college are reflecting on the many things they've experienced for the past couple of weeks: the good, the bad, and the ugly. Some are returning in the next few days, while some don't return for another week or so (Go Spartans). To break down the experiences some of you have gone through during this break away from school, here are some GIFs to perfectly describe what you've gone through.

1) The family that just won't shut up.
We all just want to eat, not talk until the food gets cold.

2) Receiving a gift you really don't want or need.
Just say thank you and move on...

3) The dreaded holiday fruit cake.
Do. NOT. Eat. It.

4) That one uncle that brings the Scrooge to the family gathering.
Don't let him bring a grey cloud over your red and green holiday.

5) The BEST gift you've ever gotten.
Take it. Cherish it. Enjoy it.

6) Spending the winter holidays where everyone else typically vacations.
Who doesn't want to spend Christmas in 75º weather?

7) Feeling the love from your favorite cousins.
Gotta love 'em, and also gotta hate 'em.

8) All of the glorious Christmas movies and TV specials.
Who doesn't love Elf, A Christmas Story, The Grinch, or An SNL Christmas?

9) Those awkward family conversations.
We love to hate them.

10) Spending quality time with your family and away from the stress of college.
They may bug you, but they're family.

I'm sure there are many, many more funny (even possibly uncomfortable) things that happen with you and your family during winter break, but these are some that I know I've experienced during the past few weeks. I wish you all a successful new semester and Happy New Year!

P.S. - never eat the fruit cake. EVER.