The final bell before winter break is almost here, and the excitement is rising as students finalize their diverse plans for the upcoming weeks off. Whether seeking different adventures out of town or cozy family moments at home, WJ students have a variety of ways to spend the break.

Many students are packing their bags and heading to colder spots and new places to get into the spirit of the holiday season. The chance to travel offers a change of scenery and time for family without worrying about missing class is a popular motivation to leave town as well.

“I prefer to go out of town,” senior Abby Ellman said. “Break is a great time to travel, so I don’t need to stress about missing school to get to see my grandparents, and it usually snows a lot in New Mexico, so I am excited to play in the snow,” Ellman said.

Junior Owen McLellan partakes in another common activity by traveling and spending time on the slopes.

“I like going out of town for winter break,” McLellan said. “It is nice to go somewhere new and do something fun. I’m excited to go skiing with my family in Utah. I have never skied out west before, so I am looking forward to it.”

For some, however, skiing isn’t just for fun. Sophomore Lizzie Robinson is spending her break practicing one of her sports.

“I am going skiing over winter break,” Robinson said. “I am on a ski team, so we have race practice over break.”

However, not everyone enjoys leaving town. Many students find that the perfect break means staying home and enjoying time to relax and enjoy family in the comfort of their own home. Senior Natalie Finn is one example of a student who is staying put to spend time with family.

“My sister is coming home from college, so we enjoy doing activities together as a family at home, such as going out for dinner or baking in our kitchen,” Finn said.

No matter where students spend their break, traditions are key to the holiday season. For many, the main tradition of the break is simply seeing family.

“During winter break, I usually connect with cousins and grandparents that I don’t get to see all the time,” Ellman said.
Robinson looks forward to spending time with her family over their dining room table.

“My family tradition is having Christmas Eve dinner with all my family,” Robinson said.

McLellan’s family keeps the break eventful with a popular gift game often shared around the holidays.

“My favorite tradition is doing white elephant with my family, “McLellan said. “We do it every year, and it is always fun.”