On January 7th, the Christmas liturgical season came to an end, as well as winter break for students at St. Joe. Over the past couple of weeks of winter break, students at St. Joe celebrated the holiday season with their family and friends. They celebrated Christmas and the New Year together, and some even went on vacation with their families. While it might have seemed short to some, this two-and-a-half-week break from school was a much-needed reset for St. Joe students after exams.
Right after exams ended, Christmas was right around the corner. With last-minute shopping for presents and clothes to wear, students were still busy with the holidays. However, when students visited their families on Christmas, the season was full of joy and celebration of the birth of Jesus. Many students started their break by attending Mass with their families on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Junior Caeleigh Edmiston went to Mass on Christmas Eve with her family.
“I loved going to Mass with my family. We got to see a life-sized nativity set in the church, which was really special. I especially loved when they placed baby Jesus in it at midnight,” she said.
While some students stayed home for the holidays, others traveled with their families. Some students hadn’t seen some of their extended family members in a while, so this break was a good time to catch up with them. Whether they were skiing in Colorado or lying on the beach in the Carolinas, going away from home during the break was something some students needed to reset. To some, the two-and-a-half-week break was a mini summer vacation.
Then, on Christmas morning, students were excited to open presents with their families. Students received a variety of gifts, including beloved UGG slippers, Stanleys, clothes, and jewelry. Whatever they received, St. Joe students were grateful and excited to start using their gifts. Some also enjoyed giving gifts to their family and friends on Christmas morning or even something like Secret Santa. Whatever the occasion, for some, giving and receiving gifts was a highlight for most during the winter break.
Junior Maddy Schlautman enjoyed opening presents on Christmas Day.
“I really wanted this brand called Hismile that helps whiten your teeth. Two of my friends and my parents got me five packs, and I was so happy,” she said.
A little while later, New Year’s Eve rolled around. Many students gathered with their friends to celebrate the special occasion. The excitement included lots of snacks, games, and TV as 2023 rolled over into 2024. Some watched the ball drop in New York City on television. No matter how each student celebrated, 2024 started on a good note.
Overall, many students enjoyed their break from school to celebrate the holiday season with their families and friends. Students made many memories during winter break, no matter what they did, from lying on the beach to going to Mass with their families. Everything from Christmas Eve to New Year’s Eve was a hit for St. Joe students. Throughout the excitement brought by the joyful season, students were sure to have a fun time while they were away from school for the holidays.
