By Sophie Etherton
Christmas break is quickly approaching, and with it the promise of rest and relaxation. With the clock ticking down to when school is dismissed for a blissful two weeks, students are becoming excited for their plans over the break. From traveling to exotic locales to simply staying at home and enjoying time with family, everyone has something to look forward to–even if it is simply the unparalleled joy of sleeping in.
For German exchange student Emma Heckmann, Christmas will look a little bit different this year. While she is still looking forward to celebrating Christmas day with her host family, she has something else planned for the day before.
“In Germany, we celebrate [Christmas] on the twenty-fourth,” Emma said. “So, I’m probably going to call my parents on the twenty-fourth for almost the whole day.”
Emma also said she hopes to follow a special tradition from Germany known as Nikolaustag. On Dec. 5, children set their shoes outside and wake up the next morning to find all sorts of little gifts, such as small toys and treats, in them. Emma said that she might try to find some small things for her host family to give to them so that she can somewhat continue this beloved tradition.
As for sophomore Hannah Vermillion, staying at home just won’t suffice. She and her family plan on going to Kansas not once, but twice over the break. From Dec 22-24, she will be spending time with one side of the family, and then from Dec. 29-31, she will go back to spend time with the other side. Hannah said that her family typically goes back to Kansas for the holidays, because most of her relatives live there. Along with being able to spend time with family, Hannah said she is also looking forward to a traditional gift exchange that her family follows.
“All the cousins get a cousin to buy a present for, so instead of just having to bring a random gift, you have someone specific to get a gift for,” Hannah said.
Then of course, there is the classic example of staying at home with family for sophomore Lylah Mitchell. She said she simply plans to enjoy a small Christmas with her family, as well as watching some movies, drinking hot chocolate, and making cookies with her two older sisters.