Inhale, Exhale, Repeat

For two weeks as the semester was winding down, this was my mantra. Inhale, exhale, repeat (try not to hyperventilate). Between projects, exams, dealing with group dynamics, programming assignments (ICK!!) - I was certain that by the time I was done with my last exam, my last email, my last document that I would be flat on the ground.

The only way I found myself standing triumphantly on the finish line for the semester was through the generous help of my friends and family. Many thanks to Dave - my 'little' brother - who helped me with the programming stuff. Without him, I'm fairly certain that my head would have popped off my shoulders in about week 4 of the semester. Same goes for my roommate Beth, who selflessly did all the cooking and cleaning (including getting the house ready for the ornament party) and reminded me that I didn't have to do it all alone.

So - now the semester is officially over. The holidays are upon us and I'm looking VERY forward to some evenings at home, some time with families - the one I was born into AND Beth's family who treat me as if I'm one of theirs, and maybe even some sleeping in.

I love this time of year, the sights, the sounds, the smells - all of it. So I'm NOT changing my mantra now that school is over. I still want to inhale, exhale, and repeat - and do it slowly to savor every moment of freedom.

Merry Christmas to all my friends and family - may the holidays find you all happy and healthy.