You won’t be around for me to wish you a happy holiday or a good whatever celebration stuffs your stocking this time of year. That means I have to get it out of the way ahead of time. It’s so you don’t worry about an emotional, post-eggnog holiday phone call. I still don’t think it’s my fault that I care, but others seem to disagree. I’m not sure what your plans are this year, but I think I might have a few ideas.

I’m not sure what your plans are this year, but I think I might have a few ideas.

A good bet says you’ll be with your family. That will be nice. You get all those warm and fuzzies in your tummy to distract you from the cold. You will also see that one family member. You know the one: the one that you love, but is just a bit off. Maybe they don’t really know how to dress or have a bit of a smell or are just plain awkward. This is the time of year where everyone in the family has to put on a smile and deal with that one person.

Which is why I am so relieved to be that one person.

You’ll probably enjoy some food as well. Now unless you’re faculty, family or a college newspaper enthusiast, you’re a fellow student. Fast food and ramen have their charm, but it’s more like a charm bracelet. The kind an 8-year-old makes you because they’re too young for good gifts. The kind that cuts off circulation and it feels like burlap, but they put heart into it. You like these things, but it’s because you have to. Not because you want to.

A good bet says you’ll be with your family.

Despite these borderline inconveniences, spending time with family is caring. That uncle that always gives you crap will be stoked to see your face. As will that one relative that always asks the same question: “How’s college going?” Then you can pretend to enjoy socializing with your relatives until they leave.