The few weeks in between Thanksgiving and Christmas break can seem like an eternity to most students at LP. Between studying for finals week, and anticipating the winter holidays, these school weeks can be overwhelming to anyone. However, when the finals are over, the semester has ended, and winter break has started it can only be a matter of time before anyone can feel bored. However, there are many things one can do to cure the boredom blues.

1. Go outsideAlthough it may seem childish to play in the snow, it can be a great source of fun and a quick way to pass a few hours. There is no shortage of sledding hills here in monument, so one can dig out some sleds, grab some friends or siblings and head out to have a good time. Besides sledding, there is an abundance of other activities to do outdoors in Colorado. If one is up for an all-day adventure   neighboring mountain town, Woodland Park, offers free outdoor pond skating if the weather permits.
2. Go skiingEven if Monument is lacking snow, any ski resort is sure to have a full supply. Skiing or snowboarding both are traditional Colorado activities, which can provide anyone with a good time. Whether you go up with friends or family members, visiting cute mountain towns can surely put one in a brighter mood.
3. Get in the holiday spiritWatching Christmas movies is a great and easy way to get in the holiday spirit. It takes literally zero effort (except maybe having to get up to cook another bag of popcorn) yet makes waiting for the holidays to arrive a little easier. There is an abundance of great Christmas movies and activities one can do to prepare for the holidays. Getting together a bunch of friends or family, one can go traditional Christmas caroling around a neighborhood. This fun idea not only brings joy to those participating but can put anyone in a great mood who hears.
4. Give backThe holiday season is the season of giving. Although it can be easy to get caught up in deciding what one personally wants to get for Christmas this year, it is important to remember those less fortunate. It can be a great “pick-me-up” to volunteer at a local shelter or Monument’s very own, Tri-Lakes Cares. “Giving-Trees” can be found at almost any store during the holiday month. The idea is that on each tree, less fortunate children are given the opportunity to still receive a Christmas present, based solely upon the kindness of strangers. Any of these ideas offer one a chance to give back and in return understand how blessed he or she may be.
5. Host a holiday partyIt is a great idea to host a fun holiday party for one’s friends. A gift exchange party is always a popular choice. All guests bring a wrapped present, whether it is humorous, or original, the gifts are always meaningful. Another holiday party idea is hosting an “ugly sweater party” all participants are simply required to wear a holiday sweater deemed less than attractive. This idea is sure to bring lots of laughs

    

6. Spend time with friends and familyAlthough this idea seems more than obvious, it is important to focus time on family and friends. Whether one traveling to see extended family members or friends, or just staying home, one must remember that time is short and soon for most students at LP, college and moving out is not far into the future.

    

   During winter break, there are plenty of fun activities to do, and even though boredom may strike at times, for most students, it seems that they wish the break would never end. One must keep in mind that after the break, there is only a few months left till summer break, just more time to complete more activities.