Christmas at Luther

Brrr. I think it's safe to say that winter is officially here. As I headed out the door this morning for class, I was glad that I didn't have to walk far with the brisk cool air filling my lungs and numbing my hands. It doesn't seem that long ago that I was out running in just shorts and t-shirt and now I'm getting all bundled up with warm underarmour, gloves, and a hat.

Along with the change in weather, a change in the decorations around Luther is evident. Over the past week and a half it seems as though little elves have come through Luther and put up Christmas trees, garland, and Christmas lights all over campus. Everything looks great and the only thing missing is a little dusting of snow, but that'll surely be here soon. Christmas songs are occasionally played outside through the speakers and Christmas goodies can be bought for friends with the proceeds going to the less fortunate. It just seems like everyone is getting ready for the holidays.

The Christmas spirit is also gaining lots of momentum in my dorm. When I arrived back from Thanksgiving break there were lights strung in my hall and many doors had already been decorated. A window-decorating contest is going on with the top three rooms winning Wal-Mart gift cards (always handy in Decorah). Today some girls on my floor are putting up little stockings for everyone and Christmas carols are being played on the bathroom radio. Our floor Christmas party is even in the works. The countdown 'til Christmas is on.

This weekend Luther's choirs and bands are performing their annual "Christmas At Luther" concert which I am very excited to attend. The music program here is exceptional and this concert has a great reputation around the area. I have yet to go to a musical performance here on campus despite having intentions to earlier in the year, so this will be my first concert and I know that it will be awesome.

Yet, with students' minds filled with thoughts of Christmas, the teachers are still assigning homework in preparation for the end of the semester. The homework never ceases during the semester, but in just 2 weeks we will be done with finals and officially free for Christmas vacation. Just 2 more weeks...