Skip to main content

‘Twas an On-Campus Winter Break

When all through Carleton not a creature was stirring, Fátima remained here.

When all through Carleton not a creature was stirring, Fátima remained here.


In the silence of the break, on campus, I reside,

This year, in anticipation I couldn’t hide.

As Carleton rests, shedding the term’s attire,

It’s just me, the squirrels, and Northfield’s quiet.

No more bustling halls, no academic chime, 

Only serene calm in this season’s prime.

So, for a moment, let me share with you,

A peek into my winter break, anew.

It all began with a Thanksgiving banquet,

For old and new friends to encounter. 

Then to the farm, a quick escapade,

Summer memories flowed in a cascade. 

College students pose with the Schoenbauer family in a living room.
The lovely people who hosted me for Thanksgiving!

In the kitchen’s warmth, a culinary rhyme,

Among the pages, lost in prose and time.

I spent my days, many movies watched,

Even played a few piano songs, a concert for one. 

In the mailroom hub, I’d often be found,

Delivering packages, all around.

Amid coworkers’ banter, under our boss’ careful watch,

The days swiftly passed, saying a quick goodbye.

It was time for me to fly to LA,

Where family and I finally met.

Touring and eating in museums and parks,

We welcomed the new year, then bid farewell. 

Back to campus, with spirits up and heart light,

Restored and ready for the term’s fresh sight.

That’s how I conclude this tale, with all my might: 

Happy holidays to all, and to all a good night! 

Four people pose on a Christmas-decoraded scene.
Happy Holidays, from my family to yours!

As a junior, Fátima (she/her) is excited to continue her pursuit of a SOAN major and (hopefully!) Educational Studies, Latin American Studies, and Cross-cultural Studies minors. Outside class, she enjoys her leadership roles with Fellowship in Christ and the Undergraduate Journal for Humanistic Studies. In her free time, Fátima likes spending time with her mentee, poorly playing the piano, watching cartoons, and desperately missing her dog, Cosmo. Meet the other bloggers!