It’s that time of year again: the time to visit with friends and family, indulge in some good food, and enjoy a nice holiday siesta away from schoolwork! But what do you do if you find yourself away from home during the holiday season this year? Will the holidays still feel the same? Personally I have never been away from home during a holiday season before–until this year. I’ll admit, I felt a mix of emotions over the idea of not being back in Cali with all of my friends and family. Nonetheless after a bit of reflection, I can honestly say that I realized it’s going to be okay! Here’s some tips for how you can make the most of being away from home in Seattle this Thanksgiving or Christmas.
1. Attend the Apple Cup game!
Not much compares to the good ol’ spirit of a UW football game. I mean who doesn’t love snatching a shot of Dubs? To see WSU and UW go head to head will definitely be a night to remember. This will certainly be one of my highlights this Thanksgiving and I hope it will be one for you too! SKO DAWGS!
2. Surround yourself with people that make you feel like you’re home
I can’t stress this one enough. In any situation, I am a firm believer that it’s always the people that make a difference. While you may not be able to spend the holidays with your main squad from back home, hopefully you’ll be able to share it with the new friends you’ve made at UW. And if you’re still meeting people, that’s okay too! It’s important to remember that we will always have people coming in and out of our lives, so make sure to be thankful for those that will surround you this year.
3. Have some quality “me” time
This one is key! After juggling schoolwork, actual work, and a social life in for an entire quarter, it’s time to focus on you. One of the best-kept secrets about spending some quality time alone away from everyone and everything is that you get to reflect. Are you dissatisfied with how busy your schedule has been? Cut some stuff out next quarter! Disappointed you didn’t spend as much time as you would have enjoyed with your friends, family, or significant other? Hit them up and plan a fun hang out! Above all, make time for something you have always wanted to do–even if you’re a bit nervous about it. This year I plan on going Black Friday shopping for the first time and while I’m worried about getting swallowed in the crowds of Westlake, I’m sure it’ll be a time I won’t regret! It’s important to remember that since we make our schedules on a daily basis, we can always carve out time to be around people and activities that fill our hearts with joyful adventures.