Fantasy of Lights captures the magic of Christmas
By: Caylee Lindsay
Alum Creek State Park’s Fantasy of Lights display is a holiday event you don’t want to miss, complete with a stunning drive-through lights show and a visit with Santa, where you are treated to complimentary hot chocolate and cookies.
The display starts off with a collection of nautical light formations, such as the “SS Santa,” where a shipload of elves and reindeer appear to be setting sail for the North Pole. Also seen in this set of lights are reindeer fishing and sailing through the “ocean.”
As you keep driving, scenes of snow-covered houses and christmas trees pass by, giving way to a dazzling “PEACE” display complete with bells, candles, and holly leaves. Soon after, a “NOEL” sign shines brightly, leading to a golden tunnel of twinkling lights. Dayna Martin (‘18), who also visited the Fantasy of Lights, says the tunnel was her favorite part. “Driving through the light tunnel made me feel like I was being transported to Christmastime,” reveals Martin.
There’s even something for the sports-lovers at the Fantasy of Lights. “Frosty’s Winter Games” is the next collection of lighted scenes. It includes displays of penguin bobsledding, reindeer playing football and lifting weights, snowmen skiing, and polar bears bungee jumping. These festive scenes of sporting events added a playful and fun component to the array of lights.
Another section of the display was dedicated to the 12 Days of Christmas. “We blasted The 12 Days of Christmas as we drove through this part, which made it really fun,” says Katelyn Darby (‘18). This section is perfect for a sing-along in the car (which may or may not drive your family members crazy).
After passing through another stunning tunnel of multicolored lights, a pathway lined with stars leads to a ginormous Christmas tree. This part encompasses the spirit of Christmas in every way, with vibrant colors and spectacular light displays around each bend, giving way to the final pathway, where a lighted Mrs. Claus greets you with a final goodbye.
At $20 per car Monday-Thursday and $30 Friday-Sunday, Alum Creek’s Fantasy of Lights is worth a holiday splurge. With friendly staff and a truly stunning variety of lights, I highly recommend taking a visit to the Fantasy of Lights this Christmas season.
-Caylee Lindsay (‘18) is a third-year Vault staff member and Print Editor-In-Chief. [email protected]
By: Caylee Lindsay
Alum Creek State Park’s Fantasy of Lights display is a holiday event you don’t want to miss, complete with a stunning drive-through lights show and a visit with Santa, where you are treated to complimentary hot chocolate and cookies.
The display starts off with a collection of nautical light formations, such as the “SS Santa,” where a shipload of elves and reindeer appear to be setting sail for the North Pole. Also seen in this set of lights are reindeer fishing and sailing through the “ocean.”
As you keep driving, scenes of snow-covered houses and christmas trees pass by, giving way to a dazzling “PEACE” display complete with bells, candles, and holly leaves. Soon after, a “NOEL” sign shines brightly, leading to a golden tunnel of twinkling lights. Dayna Martin (‘18), who also visited the Fantasy of Lights, says the tunnel was her favorite part. “Driving through the light tunnel made me feel like I was being transported to Christmastime,” reveals Martin.
There’s even something for the sports-lovers at the Fantasy of Lights. “Frosty’s Winter Games” is the next collection of lighted scenes. It includes displays of penguin bobsledding, reindeer playing football and lifting weights, snowmen skiing, and polar bears bungee jumping. These festive scenes of sporting events added a playful and fun component to the array of lights.
Another section of the display was dedicated to the 12 Days of Christmas. “We blasted The 12 Days of Christmas as we drove through this part, which made it really fun,” says Katelyn Darby (‘18). This section is perfect for a sing-along in the car (which may or may not drive your family members crazy).
After passing through another stunning tunnel of multicolored lights, a pathway lined with stars leads to a ginormous Christmas tree. This part encompasses the spirit of Christmas in every way, with vibrant colors and spectacular light displays around each bend, giving way to the final pathway, where a lighted Mrs. Claus greets you with a final goodbye.
At $20 per car Monday-Thursday and $30 Friday-Sunday, Alum Creek’s Fantasy of Lights is worth a holiday splurge. With friendly staff and a truly stunning variety of lights, I highly recommend taking a visit to the Fantasy of Lights this Christmas season.
-Caylee Lindsay (‘18) is a third-year Vault staff member and Print Editor-In-Chief. [email protected]
Crazy Christmas Traditions
By: Olivia Carpenter
NORTHRIDGE- Northridge High School has seen many generations of students pass through its doors, with several families maintaining a presence at the school for decades. And with decades of people come long-held traditions.
Fun activities will make their way down the family; for example, putting an orange in a stocking or doing white elephant gift exchanges … but other traditions are not so typical. Some of the most recognized traditions at Northridge that do not fit what someone would call “typical” include The Giant Straw Snowman, a pickle in the Christmas tree, and the souped up snowmobile.
Cora Dorman (‘18) practices the Giant Straw Snowman tradition. Although they have only done it for two years now, their family plans on doing it every year, and she said she would do it when she has her own house. Her dad found an idea and wanted to create it in his own yard.
“Every year I have a Christmas party and my dad takes three straw round bales and then he stacks them on top of each other and puts a hat and a nose on them. We also make eyes. It is just a cute decoration and helps people find my house,” explained Cora. “I really like doing it because people easily recognize my house and people always compliment it. Also, my dad doesn’t hang lights, so that’s what he does.”
A slightly more active tradition is the pickle in the Christmas tree. Alex Rahde’s (‘18) family plays this game every year. “It get’s pretty crazy” Alex said. “Our family hides a pickle ornament in the Christmas tree and divides into groups, and whoever finds it first wins. They get a prize.”
Alex’s family has done this tradition since before she was born. It’s a tradition of heritage. “It is really fun and the family goes crazy searching for the pickle, especially my aunt. I think it’s either a German or Irish tradition, I don’t remember which.” When asked if she would continue the tradition, she responded, “At a family get together I might do it, but I won’t do it if it’s only my immediate family when I’m older.”
Another tradition practiced by students at Northridge is a souped-up snowmobile. Sydney Miller (‘18) says “We hook up a car hood to the back of our four wheeler with rope. Either the older kids or the adults will drive around the four wheeler with people on the car hood and go over bumps, trying to knock them off. It is kind of like tubing, except with snow.”
The Millers have practiced this tradition for more than ten years. Sydney says, “I will definitely do it at my own house when I’m older. It’s just so fun… and I think it’s a way the parents get out of the house. It is a bonding moment with all of the cousins.”
These are only a few of the many traditions practiced by students at Northridge, and maybe you could pick up a few of these traditions to pass down in your own family.
-Olivia Carpenter ('18) is a staff writer and the Photo Editor of The Viking Vault.
By: Olivia Carpenter
NORTHRIDGE- Northridge High School has seen many generations of students pass through its doors, with several families maintaining a presence at the school for decades. And with decades of people come long-held traditions.
Fun activities will make their way down the family; for example, putting an orange in a stocking or doing white elephant gift exchanges … but other traditions are not so typical. Some of the most recognized traditions at Northridge that do not fit what someone would call “typical” include The Giant Straw Snowman, a pickle in the Christmas tree, and the souped up snowmobile.
Cora Dorman (‘18) practices the Giant Straw Snowman tradition. Although they have only done it for two years now, their family plans on doing it every year, and she said she would do it when she has her own house. Her dad found an idea and wanted to create it in his own yard.
“Every year I have a Christmas party and my dad takes three straw round bales and then he stacks them on top of each other and puts a hat and a nose on them. We also make eyes. It is just a cute decoration and helps people find my house,” explained Cora. “I really like doing it because people easily recognize my house and people always compliment it. Also, my dad doesn’t hang lights, so that’s what he does.”
A slightly more active tradition is the pickle in the Christmas tree. Alex Rahde’s (‘18) family plays this game every year. “It get’s pretty crazy” Alex said. “Our family hides a pickle ornament in the Christmas tree and divides into groups, and whoever finds it first wins. They get a prize.”
Alex’s family has done this tradition since before she was born. It’s a tradition of heritage. “It is really fun and the family goes crazy searching for the pickle, especially my aunt. I think it’s either a German or Irish tradition, I don’t remember which.” When asked if she would continue the tradition, she responded, “At a family get together I might do it, but I won’t do it if it’s only my immediate family when I’m older.”
Another tradition practiced by students at Northridge is a souped-up snowmobile. Sydney Miller (‘18) says “We hook up a car hood to the back of our four wheeler with rope. Either the older kids or the adults will drive around the four wheeler with people on the car hood and go over bumps, trying to knock them off. It is kind of like tubing, except with snow.”
The Millers have practiced this tradition for more than ten years. Sydney says, “I will definitely do it at my own house when I’m older. It’s just so fun… and I think it’s a way the parents get out of the house. It is a bonding moment with all of the cousins.”
These are only a few of the many traditions practiced by students at Northridge, and maybe you could pick up a few of these traditions to pass down in your own family.
-Olivia Carpenter ('18) is a staff writer and the Photo Editor of The Viking Vault.
How early is too early?
By: Olivia Humes
NORTHRIDGE- For many, Christmas time is the most wonderful time of the year. Celebrating Christmas and being merry are totally expected, but there is a fine line when beginning to celebrate is too early.
You know that it is too early when you are on your way to buy your Halloween costume and you see a giant Santa inflatable, along with some inflatable reindeer in someone’s front yard.
People need time to appreciate the other holidays before jumping right into one at the end of the year.
Many students believe that Christmas should be celebrated all year long, as celebrating it just for December is not long enough.
Mandy Shults (‘19) says, “It’s never too early. Literally never. I have Christmas lights and a miniature tree in my bedroom, just to make it more Christmas-y!”
Sydney Koker (‘21) agrees, and says, “It’s never too early to start celebrating the best time of the year!”
However, there are students who believe that there is a time where playing Christmas music, wearing Christmas sweaters, and putting up Christmas trees is too early.
Lauren Aamodt (‘21) explains, “I think that if you start to celebrate Christmas before Thanksgiving, it is a little bit too early. I also like to enjoy eating all the food at Thanksgiving before I focus on Christmas.”
Caroline Liggett (‘19) also says, “I think it’s okay to celebrate starting in about August, but if you celebrate from January to July, then that is definitely too early.”
Personally, I love Christmas just as much as the next person, but I also love food as much as the next person, so it makes me annoyed when people begin to celebrate Christmas and completely forget about Thanksgiving.
So, next time you are about to start playing Christmas music out loud in class at the end of August, consider the fact that it is probably going to be very annoying to many people in your class.
-Olivia Humes is the Jr. Web Editor and Sports Editor for the Viking Vault.
By: Olivia Humes
NORTHRIDGE- For many, Christmas time is the most wonderful time of the year. Celebrating Christmas and being merry are totally expected, but there is a fine line when beginning to celebrate is too early.
You know that it is too early when you are on your way to buy your Halloween costume and you see a giant Santa inflatable, along with some inflatable reindeer in someone’s front yard.
People need time to appreciate the other holidays before jumping right into one at the end of the year.
Many students believe that Christmas should be celebrated all year long, as celebrating it just for December is not long enough.
Mandy Shults (‘19) says, “It’s never too early. Literally never. I have Christmas lights and a miniature tree in my bedroom, just to make it more Christmas-y!”
Sydney Koker (‘21) agrees, and says, “It’s never too early to start celebrating the best time of the year!”
However, there are students who believe that there is a time where playing Christmas music, wearing Christmas sweaters, and putting up Christmas trees is too early.
Lauren Aamodt (‘21) explains, “I think that if you start to celebrate Christmas before Thanksgiving, it is a little bit too early. I also like to enjoy eating all the food at Thanksgiving before I focus on Christmas.”
Caroline Liggett (‘19) also says, “I think it’s okay to celebrate starting in about August, but if you celebrate from January to July, then that is definitely too early.”
Personally, I love Christmas just as much as the next person, but I also love food as much as the next person, so it makes me annoyed when people begin to celebrate Christmas and completely forget about Thanksgiving.
So, next time you are about to start playing Christmas music out loud in class at the end of August, consider the fact that it is probably going to be very annoying to many people in your class.
-Olivia Humes is the Jr. Web Editor and Sports Editor for the Viking Vault.
Christmas lists change over the years
By: Mackenzie Holder
As you grow older, your Christmas list tends to change. When you are little, your wish list consists of mostly toys. As you grow older, new and snazzier things come out that you need to have.
By the time you hit middle school, everyone wants a phone because you need to have one to text that middle school boyfriend you might have for the next three days. Once you hit freshman year, you want clothes and shoes because that is what all the cool kids have, but then sophomore year hits and the thought of a car starts to take over your brain.
When you get a little older still, your Christmas list might contain a new car because the one you originally got is old and junky and breaks down. Jacob Chestnut (‘18) states, “I want a new car because mine is in the shop for the second time and it always has a flat tire.”
Most juniors girls this year are set on the fact that they want Apple watches or, of course, the 12 Days of Christmas socks from Target because those are just “so cute and I need them right now” says Haley Keyser (‘19).
Most seniors are so stressed about college that they do not even have time to think about what is on their Christmas lists, but some have specific things that they are looking forward to getting this year. Gabe Miller (‘18), for instance, says, “I want a weighted rim disc so that I can practice discus and I also want a new tech suit because it will make me go faster when I swim.”
Other seniors are already planning for next year and are asking for things for college. Addie Vankirk (‘18) says, “I want stuff for my room and a MacBook for college.”
Since the Christmas season is upon us, everyone is making their lists and checking them twice to make sure they are perfect for Santa. Whether you are a freshman or a senior, Christmas is a lot of people's favorite time of year.
Have a great Christmas and a Happy New Year (and here’s hoping you get everything on your list)!
-Mackenzie Holder (‘19) is Jr. Print Editor for The Viking Vault.
By: Mackenzie Holder
As you grow older, your Christmas list tends to change. When you are little, your wish list consists of mostly toys. As you grow older, new and snazzier things come out that you need to have.
By the time you hit middle school, everyone wants a phone because you need to have one to text that middle school boyfriend you might have for the next three days. Once you hit freshman year, you want clothes and shoes because that is what all the cool kids have, but then sophomore year hits and the thought of a car starts to take over your brain.
When you get a little older still, your Christmas list might contain a new car because the one you originally got is old and junky and breaks down. Jacob Chestnut (‘18) states, “I want a new car because mine is in the shop for the second time and it always has a flat tire.”
Most juniors girls this year are set on the fact that they want Apple watches or, of course, the 12 Days of Christmas socks from Target because those are just “so cute and I need them right now” says Haley Keyser (‘19).
Most seniors are so stressed about college that they do not even have time to think about what is on their Christmas lists, but some have specific things that they are looking forward to getting this year. Gabe Miller (‘18), for instance, says, “I want a weighted rim disc so that I can practice discus and I also want a new tech suit because it will make me go faster when I swim.”
Other seniors are already planning for next year and are asking for things for college. Addie Vankirk (‘18) says, “I want stuff for my room and a MacBook for college.”
Since the Christmas season is upon us, everyone is making their lists and checking them twice to make sure they are perfect for Santa. Whether you are a freshman or a senior, Christmas is a lot of people's favorite time of year.
Have a great Christmas and a Happy New Year (and here’s hoping you get everything on your list)!
-Mackenzie Holder (‘19) is Jr. Print Editor for The Viking Vault.
Dr. Love
How to deal with your significant other mingling with your family for the holidays
By: Sydney Miller
The holidays are upon us, and I still don't have a boyfriend, but that doesn't keep me from offering some advice about family get-togethers for those of you who are dating.
When meeting the family of your significant other, you can expect a couple of different types of people. The most commonly known one would be the crazy aunt with her even crazier aunt, you know the kind. They sometimes have a little too much eggnog and will soon tell all your embarrassing stories you didn’t want your partner to know, like the time you accidentally dialed 911 on a payphone, not knowing it would actually work without money in it. It will be okay because after a couple stories go by, they will soon fall asleep before they get around to the story about you running around your house, nude, before your bath.
Another person you can expect is that one cousin who you see maybe once a year whose name you barely remember. They’re a little weird and might make your “other” feel a little uncomfortable with their pet rat that they take everywhere. And when you guys are forced to talk, you’ll both act like you guys see each other all the time, and after you’re done play pretending with each other, you can expect that awkward silence. Everything will be okay because soon the night will be over and you might not see them until next Christmas or even your wedding.
Just when everything is settling down, dinner is done and the attention is about to be on you and your significant other’s relationship. The questions you swear you have answered at least a hundred times already are about to come up once more. Although you’ve already answered the questions, you put a smile on your face and answer the questions politely and loudly enough for everyone to hear so they don’t ask the question again. After the questions have been asked, you can finally eat the cold food that has been on your plate for about a half hour.
Even though it may be rough in the beginning, everything will work out and it will be a Christmas you won’t forget, whether you want to or not, and you won’t have to go through it again until the next holiday.
If this advice helped you, feel free to ask me for more specific help. I’ll be on the lookout for the answers!
Until next visit,
Dr. Love PHD
-Sydney Miller ('18) is a first-year Vault staff member.
How to deal with your significant other mingling with your family for the holidays
By: Sydney Miller
The holidays are upon us, and I still don't have a boyfriend, but that doesn't keep me from offering some advice about family get-togethers for those of you who are dating.
When meeting the family of your significant other, you can expect a couple of different types of people. The most commonly known one would be the crazy aunt with her even crazier aunt, you know the kind. They sometimes have a little too much eggnog and will soon tell all your embarrassing stories you didn’t want your partner to know, like the time you accidentally dialed 911 on a payphone, not knowing it would actually work without money in it. It will be okay because after a couple stories go by, they will soon fall asleep before they get around to the story about you running around your house, nude, before your bath.
Another person you can expect is that one cousin who you see maybe once a year whose name you barely remember. They’re a little weird and might make your “other” feel a little uncomfortable with their pet rat that they take everywhere. And when you guys are forced to talk, you’ll both act like you guys see each other all the time, and after you’re done play pretending with each other, you can expect that awkward silence. Everything will be okay because soon the night will be over and you might not see them until next Christmas or even your wedding.
Just when everything is settling down, dinner is done and the attention is about to be on you and your significant other’s relationship. The questions you swear you have answered at least a hundred times already are about to come up once more. Although you’ve already answered the questions, you put a smile on your face and answer the questions politely and loudly enough for everyone to hear so they don’t ask the question again. After the questions have been asked, you can finally eat the cold food that has been on your plate for about a half hour.
Even though it may be rough in the beginning, everything will work out and it will be a Christmas you won’t forget, whether you want to or not, and you won’t have to go through it again until the next holiday.
If this advice helped you, feel free to ask me for more specific help. I’ll be on the lookout for the answers!
Until next visit,
Dr. Love PHD
-Sydney Miller ('18) is a first-year Vault staff member.
White Elephant gift ideas
By: Dayna Martin
With the Christmas season here,many are singing Christmas carols, decorating their homes and trees, making cookies, and wrapping presents for their friend’s upcoming White Elephant gift exchange. A White Elephant party is where a group of people come together to exchange gifts, and the exchange is more for the entertainment of the group and not so much of gaining a gift. Cora Dorman (‘18) says, “White Elephant parties have become a tradition for my friends and I. It's a great way to bring all of your friends together and have a good laugh.”
So, you may wonder what the proper gift is to bring to a white elephant gift exchange. Well, the answer to your question is, anything you can find around your house or unwanted items are the perfect white elephant gift. William Cox (‘18) advises, “There is no wrong or stupid gift for a White Elephant exchange. Don’t stress about it.”
Before you begin to stress about what you are going to take to your friend’s White Elephant gift exchange, here are a few ideas:
Look around your house for any items that are not used anymore or things that you have been meaning to get rid of such as, an old board game that is missing a few pieces or an old halloween costume that you have laying around in your basement. You can search through your collection of DVDs and gift one of your friends with old movies or group workout videos (which might be useful during the Christmas season).
Any toys that you can find from when you were younger are great White Elephant gifts and are a hit at the gift exchange. If you can find your Easy Bake Oven from your childhood, that will make for a great gift. Especially if the oven still works and your friends are able to whip up a cookie, and relive their time as a child. If you don’t have an Easy Bake Oven, then don’t worry, you can find a couple miniature race cars, and wrap the cars in a large box to fool your friends. Alison Bash (‘18) tells, “One time I wrapped a small gift in a large box and it was fun to watch my friends unwrap the whole box only to find a tiny gift inside.”
For a White Elephant gift exchange, you are not likely to go wrong with any gift idea. Your friends will get a laugh out of any gift they open because every gift is different, and that is what makes the exchange fun for the group.
-Dayna Martin (‘18) is a second-year Vault staff member and Features Editor. [email protected]
By: Dayna Martin
With the Christmas season here,many are singing Christmas carols, decorating their homes and trees, making cookies, and wrapping presents for their friend’s upcoming White Elephant gift exchange. A White Elephant party is where a group of people come together to exchange gifts, and the exchange is more for the entertainment of the group and not so much of gaining a gift. Cora Dorman (‘18) says, “White Elephant parties have become a tradition for my friends and I. It's a great way to bring all of your friends together and have a good laugh.”
So, you may wonder what the proper gift is to bring to a white elephant gift exchange. Well, the answer to your question is, anything you can find around your house or unwanted items are the perfect white elephant gift. William Cox (‘18) advises, “There is no wrong or stupid gift for a White Elephant exchange. Don’t stress about it.”
Before you begin to stress about what you are going to take to your friend’s White Elephant gift exchange, here are a few ideas:
Look around your house for any items that are not used anymore or things that you have been meaning to get rid of such as, an old board game that is missing a few pieces or an old halloween costume that you have laying around in your basement. You can search through your collection of DVDs and gift one of your friends with old movies or group workout videos (which might be useful during the Christmas season).
Any toys that you can find from when you were younger are great White Elephant gifts and are a hit at the gift exchange. If you can find your Easy Bake Oven from your childhood, that will make for a great gift. Especially if the oven still works and your friends are able to whip up a cookie, and relive their time as a child. If you don’t have an Easy Bake Oven, then don’t worry, you can find a couple miniature race cars, and wrap the cars in a large box to fool your friends. Alison Bash (‘18) tells, “One time I wrapped a small gift in a large box and it was fun to watch my friends unwrap the whole box only to find a tiny gift inside.”
For a White Elephant gift exchange, you are not likely to go wrong with any gift idea. Your friends will get a laugh out of any gift they open because every gift is different, and that is what makes the exchange fun for the group.
-Dayna Martin (‘18) is a second-year Vault staff member and Features Editor. [email protected]
‘Twas the expectations of Christmas
By: Katie Applequist
Christmastime. A time for joy and cheer. Visions of sugarplums dance in your head when you think of the festive season. It’s the most wonderful time of year. Thousands of songs can’t be wrong. Can they?
Everyone has the idea of the perfect Christmas. Whether you eat copious amounts of Christmas cookies or sit by the fire cuddled with your pets in a comfy Christmas-themed sweater or just spend time with your family, Christmas seems like it should be perfect. But, is it always the most wonderful time of the year?
Sometimes, Christmas is less than ideal.
Abigail Travis (‘19), like your average celebrator of the holiday, has had a rough Christmas before. “I think I was in second grade, I was really young, but all I remember from that Christmas was that I had a swollen lymph node. I just laid in a chair and cried because it hurt so much.”
Kaitlin Carrick (‘22) didn’t celebrate Christmas on Christmas. “When I was 6 or 7, there was a really bad snowstorm and we lost all electricity and heat on Christmas Eve. My parents freaked out that we couldn’t have Christmas because it was freezing in the house and our tree wasn’t lit. I still believed in Santa and all that Christmas magic. My parents booked a hotel an hour away and we packed up and went there. My parents and siblings all told me that it wasn’t Christmas; I had my days mixed up, they said, and Christmas was still a few days away.”
Stephen Padilla (‘18) had a rough Christmas Eve one year. “We were on our way to church and all of my three brothers and I were in the car and it was really icy and all of a sudden the car started sliding and it spun a bit and my siblings and I all yelled ‘we’re gonna die!’ at the same time. Everyone ended up fine, but it’s a running joke in the family now.”
One anonymous junior “braced” for the holiday season. Here’s that story: “A few years ago when I used to have braces, and I had a metal wire that was attached to my back molars. The left side had been unglued for a while but I would just pop it back over my tooth and move on with life. It was lunch time and we were eating as a family and as I opened my mouth to take a bite, it popped down and unknowingly I bit it and bent it so it couldn't go back over my tooth. I either had to hold my mouth open until we could get it fixed or the metal wire would stab into my cheek. Since the dentist was closed because of the holidays, we went to the hospital to see if they could fix it somehow. We sat in the waiting room for awhile and then when they finally called me back, they had me lay down on the bed and tugged at the other side trying not to rip my tooth out on the other side that was still connected. Finally my mom got a hold of the dentist and we went to his office. It literally took him maybe 10 seconds to get it off and then all was well.”
The thing to remember is, even if your holiday doesn’t go quite the way it was supposed to, you might end up with a good story to laugh about for years to come.
-Katie Applequist (‘18) is a second year member of the Viking Vault and Entertainment editor.
By: Katie Applequist
Christmastime. A time for joy and cheer. Visions of sugarplums dance in your head when you think of the festive season. It’s the most wonderful time of year. Thousands of songs can’t be wrong. Can they?
Everyone has the idea of the perfect Christmas. Whether you eat copious amounts of Christmas cookies or sit by the fire cuddled with your pets in a comfy Christmas-themed sweater or just spend time with your family, Christmas seems like it should be perfect. But, is it always the most wonderful time of the year?
Sometimes, Christmas is less than ideal.
Abigail Travis (‘19), like your average celebrator of the holiday, has had a rough Christmas before. “I think I was in second grade, I was really young, but all I remember from that Christmas was that I had a swollen lymph node. I just laid in a chair and cried because it hurt so much.”
Kaitlin Carrick (‘22) didn’t celebrate Christmas on Christmas. “When I was 6 or 7, there was a really bad snowstorm and we lost all electricity and heat on Christmas Eve. My parents freaked out that we couldn’t have Christmas because it was freezing in the house and our tree wasn’t lit. I still believed in Santa and all that Christmas magic. My parents booked a hotel an hour away and we packed up and went there. My parents and siblings all told me that it wasn’t Christmas; I had my days mixed up, they said, and Christmas was still a few days away.”
Stephen Padilla (‘18) had a rough Christmas Eve one year. “We were on our way to church and all of my three brothers and I were in the car and it was really icy and all of a sudden the car started sliding and it spun a bit and my siblings and I all yelled ‘we’re gonna die!’ at the same time. Everyone ended up fine, but it’s a running joke in the family now.”
One anonymous junior “braced” for the holiday season. Here’s that story: “A few years ago when I used to have braces, and I had a metal wire that was attached to my back molars. The left side had been unglued for a while but I would just pop it back over my tooth and move on with life. It was lunch time and we were eating as a family and as I opened my mouth to take a bite, it popped down and unknowingly I bit it and bent it so it couldn't go back over my tooth. I either had to hold my mouth open until we could get it fixed or the metal wire would stab into my cheek. Since the dentist was closed because of the holidays, we went to the hospital to see if they could fix it somehow. We sat in the waiting room for awhile and then when they finally called me back, they had me lay down on the bed and tugged at the other side trying not to rip my tooth out on the other side that was still connected. Finally my mom got a hold of the dentist and we went to his office. It literally took him maybe 10 seconds to get it off and then all was well.”
The thing to remember is, even if your holiday doesn’t go quite the way it was supposed to, you might end up with a good story to laugh about for years to come.
-Katie Applequist (‘18) is a second year member of the Viking Vault and Entertainment editor.
Tips for Ugly Christmas Sweaters
By: Cora Dorman
NORTHRIDGE- One of the toughest decisions of the holiday season … ugly Christmas sweaters. How do you find the perfect ugly sweater? Here are a few suggestions to help with your decision.
Don’t spend lots of money. Try looking for an ugly sweater at Goodwill or a second-hand store. (Just wash it; wearing someone else’s clothes won’t hurt you for a night). You could also find some sweaters at your Grandma’s house, I’m sure she has some “cute” ones. The best sweaters are cheap!
Borrowing from a friend is always a good idea. Caylee Lindsay (‘18) loans out her sweaters to some of her friends around the holiday season. She says, “I loaned a sweater to Katelyn Darby for a party last year and I have yet to see that sweater appear back in my closet.”
Match your sweater with more festive wear. For example, wear some ugly Christmas
socks or ugly Christmas necklaces and earrings to top off your outfit. Matching is not important when it comes to an ugly sweater. The point of wearing an ugly sweater is to show your festive spirit in a goofy way.
Add some flashy color to your sweater, if possible. Try finding light up Christmas wear such as socks, earrings, necklaces, etc. Light up sweaters are even available at some stores. You would really be the talk of the party if you could get a light up Christmas sweater.
Another rule for ugly sweater parties is that the weirder the sweater the better. Some of the sweaters can get pretty wild, but that’s what makes an ugly Christmas sweater fun.
Boys, remember that ugly Christmas sweaters aren’t limited to just girls. All boys are welcome to wear them. Ugly sweaters are a new tradition of the holidays, so embrace the new tradition with open arms.
No one will make fun of you for looking odd because they will look just as strange. Ugly sweaters are supposed to be a fun addition to the holiday season.
You will have a great ugly Christmas sweater if you take these tips into consideration. Last of all, just have fun with your ugly sweater and enjoy the holidays! Check out the picture included for sweater ideas!
-Cora Dorman ('18) is a second-year Vault staff member.
By: Cora Dorman
NORTHRIDGE- One of the toughest decisions of the holiday season … ugly Christmas sweaters. How do you find the perfect ugly sweater? Here are a few suggestions to help with your decision.
Don’t spend lots of money. Try looking for an ugly sweater at Goodwill or a second-hand store. (Just wash it; wearing someone else’s clothes won’t hurt you for a night). You could also find some sweaters at your Grandma’s house, I’m sure she has some “cute” ones. The best sweaters are cheap!
Borrowing from a friend is always a good idea. Caylee Lindsay (‘18) loans out her sweaters to some of her friends around the holiday season. She says, “I loaned a sweater to Katelyn Darby for a party last year and I have yet to see that sweater appear back in my closet.”
Match your sweater with more festive wear. For example, wear some ugly Christmas
socks or ugly Christmas necklaces and earrings to top off your outfit. Matching is not important when it comes to an ugly sweater. The point of wearing an ugly sweater is to show your festive spirit in a goofy way.
Add some flashy color to your sweater, if possible. Try finding light up Christmas wear such as socks, earrings, necklaces, etc. Light up sweaters are even available at some stores. You would really be the talk of the party if you could get a light up Christmas sweater.
Another rule for ugly sweater parties is that the weirder the sweater the better. Some of the sweaters can get pretty wild, but that’s what makes an ugly Christmas sweater fun.
Boys, remember that ugly Christmas sweaters aren’t limited to just girls. All boys are welcome to wear them. Ugly sweaters are a new tradition of the holidays, so embrace the new tradition with open arms.
No one will make fun of you for looking odd because they will look just as strange. Ugly sweaters are supposed to be a fun addition to the holiday season.
You will have a great ugly Christmas sweater if you take these tips into consideration. Last of all, just have fun with your ugly sweater and enjoy the holidays! Check out the picture included for sweater ideas!
-Cora Dorman ('18) is a second-year Vault staff member.
Christmas games for your next holiday party
By: Katelyn Darby
As Christmas approaches you may be hosting or attending many holiday parties. Try adding these games to your parties for some extra fun:
Switch, Steal, or Unwrap Gift Exchange
This is a fun way to add a gift exchange to your party. To play the game, you will need a dice and all guests will need to bring a gift. Each number on the dice is assigned to either allow the person who rolls to switch for someone else’s gift, steal another gift, or unwrap their gift. If a one is rolled, the player switches their gift with the person on their right. If the number two is rolled, the player switches their gift with the person on their right. A three or four allows the player to steal any gift, and a five or six allows the player to unwrap their gift.
Telestrations
For this game, you will need to cut up paper into smaller sections to give each guest as many pieces of paper as there are guests there. The game starts out with everyone drawing a picture that has to do with the Holiday season. When everyone is finished, the players pass their stack of papers to the right. The person who receives the picture will move the picture to the bottom of the stack and write a short phrase to describe the picture on the top of the stack, The papers are passed again, and the next person draws the phrase the last person wrote. This continues until everyone gets their original drawing back. Then, everyone reads through their stack.
Christmas Carol Pictionary Relay
This game is like a normal game of pictionary with a Christmas twist. Split the guests up into teams and make a list of Christmas carols in a jar. One person draws the carol until the rest of their team guesses it.
Paper Plate game
To play this game, all you need is a paper plate and pens for each player. Everyone will hold the paper plates on top of their head so they can’t see them. One person will give instructions for every player to draw a Christmas tree with the following steps: draw a line for a floor, draw a Christmas tree and add decorations, draw a star on top of the tree, draw a fireplace and mantel next to the tree, draw a stocking hanging from the mantel, draw a present below the tree. Points will be given to each person as follows: two points if the tree is touching the floor, two points if the stocking is touching the mantel, one point if the star touches the tree, one point if the star is above the tree, one point for every extra decoration on the tree, one point if the fireplace doesn’t touch the tree, two points if the present is under the tree. Whoever has the most points in the end is the winner.
-Katelyn Darby (‘18) is a third-year Vault staff member and Web Editor-in-Chief. [email protected]
By: Katelyn Darby
As Christmas approaches you may be hosting or attending many holiday parties. Try adding these games to your parties for some extra fun:
Switch, Steal, or Unwrap Gift Exchange
This is a fun way to add a gift exchange to your party. To play the game, you will need a dice and all guests will need to bring a gift. Each number on the dice is assigned to either allow the person who rolls to switch for someone else’s gift, steal another gift, or unwrap their gift. If a one is rolled, the player switches their gift with the person on their right. If the number two is rolled, the player switches their gift with the person on their right. A three or four allows the player to steal any gift, and a five or six allows the player to unwrap their gift.
Telestrations
For this game, you will need to cut up paper into smaller sections to give each guest as many pieces of paper as there are guests there. The game starts out with everyone drawing a picture that has to do with the Holiday season. When everyone is finished, the players pass their stack of papers to the right. The person who receives the picture will move the picture to the bottom of the stack and write a short phrase to describe the picture on the top of the stack, The papers are passed again, and the next person draws the phrase the last person wrote. This continues until everyone gets their original drawing back. Then, everyone reads through their stack.
Christmas Carol Pictionary Relay
This game is like a normal game of pictionary with a Christmas twist. Split the guests up into teams and make a list of Christmas carols in a jar. One person draws the carol until the rest of their team guesses it.
Paper Plate game
To play this game, all you need is a paper plate and pens for each player. Everyone will hold the paper plates on top of their head so they can’t see them. One person will give instructions for every player to draw a Christmas tree with the following steps: draw a line for a floor, draw a Christmas tree and add decorations, draw a star on top of the tree, draw a fireplace and mantel next to the tree, draw a stocking hanging from the mantel, draw a present below the tree. Points will be given to each person as follows: two points if the tree is touching the floor, two points if the stocking is touching the mantel, one point if the star touches the tree, one point if the star is above the tree, one point for every extra decoration on the tree, one point if the fireplace doesn’t touch the tree, two points if the present is under the tree. Whoever has the most points in the end is the winner.
-Katelyn Darby (‘18) is a third-year Vault staff member and Web Editor-in-Chief. [email protected]
Home Alone is worth watching
By: Jason Turner
I chose an oldie but a classic to review for Christmas, one of my favorites: Home Alone. The movie is an older one, not necessarily a “Christmas movie” but based around and set during the holiday of Christmas.
The movie is good for an early 90s movie, with the exception of being somewhat unrealistic. How many parents would really forget their kid at home? Also, how does an 8-year-old know how to come up with the things he does?
For those of you who may not have seen it, Home Alone is based on a family who accidentally left their young son home by himself while leaving to spend the holidays in France with extended family. He finds himself trying to protect the house from robbers by setting up traps for them, learning a lot about himself even as he tries to preserve holiday traditions and warm family feels he had taken for granted before.
If you haven’t seen this movie, it will definitely give you a laugh if you watch it sometime this season.
- Jason Turner (‘18) is a Vault staff member who reviews films
By: Jason Turner
I chose an oldie but a classic to review for Christmas, one of my favorites: Home Alone. The movie is an older one, not necessarily a “Christmas movie” but based around and set during the holiday of Christmas.
The movie is good for an early 90s movie, with the exception of being somewhat unrealistic. How many parents would really forget their kid at home? Also, how does an 8-year-old know how to come up with the things he does?
For those of you who may not have seen it, Home Alone is based on a family who accidentally left their young son home by himself while leaving to spend the holidays in France with extended family. He finds himself trying to protect the house from robbers by setting up traps for them, learning a lot about himself even as he tries to preserve holiday traditions and warm family feels he had taken for granted before.
If you haven’t seen this movie, it will definitely give you a laugh if you watch it sometime this season.
- Jason Turner (‘18) is a Vault staff member who reviews films
SANTA: Real or Myth?
By: Madison Legg
Many people wonder how their stockings get filled and how presents appear under their tree every year. Others are sure they know.
There are many different theories as to how this miracle happens every year. Some people say there is a man that works constantly year-round to create toys for kids who are good. Others believe that this is the work of parents trying to give them a sense of hope and magic in their lives.
The people that say Santa is not real usually claim it is their parents shopping instead of the elves making the presents. They say their parents even dress up as Santa every year and put presents under the tree, and then they eat all the cookies you put out and write fake notes to some kids.
Ashton Dick (‘19) says, “I have not believed in Santa since I was in the fourth grade. There isn't a man with a white beard sneaking into my house and leaving me gifts.” He is not the only one that does not believe in Ole Saint Nick. Gavin Young (‘21) claims, “There is no way that santa is real,” and insists, “You really think there is such thing as flying reindeer?!?”
Is he right? Is Santa real or just an illusion?
Others have believed in Santa for as long as they can remember. They believe in all the magic and hope that Santa brings to the world. They believe he spends all year creating toys, helping the elves and preparing for this magical holiday. They say he travels the world in one night delivering presents to everyone. They say he gets in his red shiny sleigh pulled by the magical flying reindeer and spreads happiness to children when they wake up and get the joy of unwrapping presents.
Erica Siegel (‘19) says, “Throughout my childhood many things changed, and the one thing that stayed constant was my belief in things ... not just in Santa but believing in all things. So yes, I do believe Santa is real.” So, for some people it isn’t just figuring out the logistics behind someone bringing them presents; no, for some people it seems to be much more than that.
The big debate over whether Santa is real or not is not only about who brings the presents but about your entire childhood and having that feeling of magic in your life.
Logan Zigo (‘18) says “Whether Santa Claus is real or not isn't the point. The point is, as a kid, believing in things is what you do. Santa, the Easter Bunny, and the tooth fairy etc. That's what you do. It makes life seem much more enjoyable and fun.”
So in the end, Santa being fact or fiction may not even be the point.
-Madison Legg ('19) is the Entertainment and Publicity Editor for the Vault. [email protected]
By: Madison Legg
Many people wonder how their stockings get filled and how presents appear under their tree every year. Others are sure they know.
There are many different theories as to how this miracle happens every year. Some people say there is a man that works constantly year-round to create toys for kids who are good. Others believe that this is the work of parents trying to give them a sense of hope and magic in their lives.
The people that say Santa is not real usually claim it is their parents shopping instead of the elves making the presents. They say their parents even dress up as Santa every year and put presents under the tree, and then they eat all the cookies you put out and write fake notes to some kids.
Ashton Dick (‘19) says, “I have not believed in Santa since I was in the fourth grade. There isn't a man with a white beard sneaking into my house and leaving me gifts.” He is not the only one that does not believe in Ole Saint Nick. Gavin Young (‘21) claims, “There is no way that santa is real,” and insists, “You really think there is such thing as flying reindeer?!?”
Is he right? Is Santa real or just an illusion?
Others have believed in Santa for as long as they can remember. They believe in all the magic and hope that Santa brings to the world. They believe he spends all year creating toys, helping the elves and preparing for this magical holiday. They say he travels the world in one night delivering presents to everyone. They say he gets in his red shiny sleigh pulled by the magical flying reindeer and spreads happiness to children when they wake up and get the joy of unwrapping presents.
Erica Siegel (‘19) says, “Throughout my childhood many things changed, and the one thing that stayed constant was my belief in things ... not just in Santa but believing in all things. So yes, I do believe Santa is real.” So, for some people it isn’t just figuring out the logistics behind someone bringing them presents; no, for some people it seems to be much more than that.
The big debate over whether Santa is real or not is not only about who brings the presents but about your entire childhood and having that feeling of magic in your life.
Logan Zigo (‘18) says “Whether Santa Claus is real or not isn't the point. The point is, as a kid, believing in things is what you do. Santa, the Easter Bunny, and the tooth fairy etc. That's what you do. It makes life seem much more enjoyable and fun.”
So in the end, Santa being fact or fiction may not even be the point.
-Madison Legg ('19) is the Entertainment and Publicity Editor for the Vault. [email protected]