12/17/19 Journal

Today's weather is very fitting for my current mood. It is cold, but the sun is shining bright. I have overcome the most stressful part of the semester. The part where all quality of life is overlooked and us students have one goal in mind, to finish strong. Although this year was far less stressful than years past, I still find myself slipping into finals mode. But now I am basking in the light at the end of the tunnel. I already packed my bags and made the short drive to my parent's house in West Fort Worth. I decided when I arrived home to sit down and journal as the sun slowly set, and to my surprise I ended up staring at a buck right in our back yard. It was about a 6 point.

Winter break is always much needed after the constant grind of the semester. It aligns perfectly with the middle of duck season and the peak of trout fishing here in Texas and Southeast Oklahoma. I always make a point to get out and enjoy these hobbies over the break. Winter break is also a time that I get to catch up with old high school buddies back in town for Christmas. We attend our local alumni soccer game and reminisce on old times. There is something I love about talking about our past endeavors. I think it is because I have changed so much from the person I was in high school. It is great to catch up with old friends, but they simply don't know me as well anymore. I am looking forward to Christmas not because of the gifts, but because of the quality time I will get to spend with loved ones that I don't get to see all so often.