The biggest disappointment this year was the lack of snow. I have become accustomed to having snow around Christmas and seeing the world in a silent blanket of white during break. While I did witness the semi-miraculous event of snowfall on Christmas Eve (with snow that lasted until we opened presents the next morning), it has thus been a disappointing season for snow. Still, I haven't hurt my back like I did two years ago.
My birthday movie marathon went very well. Our family get-togethers involved more than just sitting on couches and staring at one another. I spent more time doing things (often playing games) with my children. Most importantly, I feel rested from this break.
This was the first winter break in my memory that I didn't complete a video game from start to finish. While I've played a number of video games during break, none of them received the full devotion that I usually give during this time off. I also didn't complete any writing projects. While I don't normally do much writing during winter breaks, I had hoped to be able to kick out the screenplay that I want to submit by March. Hopefully, the muse hits me before then.
I'm happy to be back at school, as odd as it is to say that. While I still wouldn't mind a snow day, I don't feel the intense need for one that I have in previous years. While my blood pressure might still be scaring me, this sense of peace that I feel seems to indicate that I am better off not having to start teaching at two institutions after winter break (which had been the case for the past eight years).
While I would like more winter in my winter break, I'm glad that I had the time that I did.