These final weeks are what I like to call “The Gauntlet,” and The Gauntlet can certainly be challenging. It can be difficult to drive through the last little bit and see the holidays as the light of the day. However, as we all make a break for the final steps of The Gauntlet, let’s enjoy some thoughtful reflection of the season from some maroons:
What’s a Christmas tradition you have that you look forward to doing this year? “When my family gets our Christmas tree, we spend the entire day decorating our house. We blast Christmas music and bring all the decorations to the living room to go through. I always look forward to doing this because it brings back so many memories. Afterwards, we light up the tree and look at all our hard work. This day puts us all in the holiday spirit, and we get to make the house all pretty for the season.” – Hannah Brashear (Class of ‘29)
As the holidays approach, what is keeping you motivated looking past finals? “Once finals pass, I will be able to relax at home for nearly a month and not have to stress about classes. I am also looking forward to getting to spend time with friends and family that I have not seen in a while.” – Drew Orrock (Class of ‘29)
In German culture, Christmas (Weihnachten) is a widely celebrated and exciting time of year. I asked Frau (German for “Miss”) Duffy what her favorite German holiday tradition was so we can see what other cultures might do to celebrate the season: “My favorite German holiday tradition is St. Nikolaus Tag [“Tag” means “Day”]. I love the charming custom of children putting out their shoes and waking up to find small treats and surprises left by St. Nikolaus. It’s such a sweet, simple way to build excitement for the coming holiday season and create a sense of wonder and anticipation.” – Frau Susan Duffy (German Professor)
Vance Redd
Staff Reporter
