The best time of the year is when finals have passed and you finally get to make your journey home – whether it be long or short. Looking back at the semester is always a giggle. Thinking about all of those “darties,” late nights spent at the frats, formals, and Halloween parties can stir up the nostalgia. But going home for winter break has been a long-time coming and there is so little time to do everything you want.

Between friends, family, and pets, this is a good time of the year to catch up.

1. Spend some quality time with your parents

Although not all of us are equally as close to our parents, their company can be missed when we have been away for four months. This is the perfect time to dedicate some cozy snuggles to your mama because you have an entire month to spend with your friends.

Ranging from a family dinner to a shopping day at the mall, no matter what you do, your parents will love you for it. You might even get some free items in your bag if you choose a shopping trip.

2. Catch up with your long-distance besties

Remember your best friend Kimmy that goes to school halfway across the country? No, you probably don’t because you guys have been separated for months. Sometimes you get to see your friends in between school starting and winter break, but there is always that one friend that you haven’t seen a single moment of. You are probably going to explode with gossip when you come face-to-face with her, so make sure you set aside a couple hours out of your day.

3. Give your pet the biggest smooches and snuggles

Whether you have a dog, cat (even though I greatly dislike cats), reptile, or guinea pig, they deserve the most love out of everyone. Pets, seriously, are the uttermost loyal family members ever. That’s right – they are family members. The moment you step into your home over break for the first time, they will be at your feet immediately. They probably thought you died or left them alone with your crazy brother. Give them some reassurance and maybe even some treats.

4. Hit up your favorite restaurant

You know that restaurant you crave on a Wednesday night, while you are studying for an exam at college? That’s the one. For me, it would be El Tequila’s chips and salsa. And you bet, the minute I get home I will be stopping on the way for a to-go order. Winter break is the perfect time to drive over to your “El Tequila” and order your favorite dish. Who cares about the calories anymore? We should be thickening up for this long, cold winter anyways.

5. Pick up some shifts and gossip with your coworkers

There are many breaks during the length of a school year. However, none of them compare to winter break. Winter break is the time that you actually get more than one week off of school. Take advantage of this moment and earn yourself some money. Even though you may have a job at school, chances are that you only work 10 hours a week and earn $8 an hour. Besides, your coworkers at school don’t compare to the ones you have at home. Your coworkers at home want to hear about your first-semester shenanigans just as much as your besties do. Take some time out of the break and spend it making money and restoring your work friendships.

Winter can be both the best and the worst time of the year. By doing some things on this list, it might make it better.