After our demanding mid-term exams, we finally got our winter holidays. Winter is my favourite season, so I was thrilled. Throughout the exams, I kept daydreaming about all the fun activities I would do. I had already told my parents that during this break, we must visit the northern areas. I had been longing to see snow and couldn’t contain my excitement.

The day my exams ended, as soon as I reached home, I eagerly asked my parents, “Are we going to visit the northern areas for a trip?”

My excitement quickly turned to disappointment when my mum gently said, “I’m sorry, dear, but your dad couldn’t get leave from the office. We won’t be able to go this time. But don’t be disheartened; we’ll plan for it during your next holidays.”

I tried to smile, but deep down, I was really sad. I had already told all my friends that I was going to see the snow, and now I didn’t know what to tell them. Still, I reminded myself that I was a grown up now and should understand my parents’ situation. I decided to make the best of my holidays and plan some great activities to enjoy at home.

The first few days of the holidays went by quickly. I visited my grandma’s house and spent a wonderful evening with her. She told me fun stories, and we had a lovely dinner together. Back home, I got busy with art projects as I tried various creative activities. One day, I made pasta with my mum. It turned out delicious, and we both enjoyed cooking together.

But after a while, I started feeling bored. I had done so many activities already, and there were still several days of holidays left. I couldn’t figure out what to do next.

I went to my mum and said, “Mum, I’ve run out of ideas for activities, and I’m really missing my friends. Can you suggest something?”

Mum thought for a moment and then suggested, “Why don’t we host a winter party at home? You can invite all your friends. It’ll be fun, and you’ll get to see them too.”

I jumped with excitement. “That’s an amazing idea! Let’s do it!”

We decided to have the party two days later to give ourselves enough time to prepare. I called all my friends and invited them. Over the next two days, my mum and I worked hard to plan and decorate. We chose a white and sky-blue theme to create the perfect winter vibe. I helped decorate the house with fairy lights and paper snowflakes.

Finally, the day of the party arrived. My friends all came on time, and I greeted them warmly.

“I missed you all so much! Thank you for coming,” I said with a big smile.

Since it was a bit chilly, we started by serving hot soup with crackers. We all sat together, sipping the warm soup and chatting about our holidays.

“I’ve been doing so many art projects,” I shared. “And guess what? I even did some cooking!”

“That sounds amazing!” my friend Aisha replied. “I’ve been learning to bake cookies. Maybe we can try it together sometime.”

After finishing the soup, we decided to play some games. We started with hide and seek, then moved on to Ludo, and later did some drawing together. Everyone was laughing and enjoying themselves.

“Let’s watch a movie next!” my friend, Ali, suggested.

“How about Jurassic Park?” I proposed, and everyone agreed excitedly.

We gathered in the living room, snuggled under blankets, and watched the movie while munching on snacks and sipping coffee. The thrilling scenes kept us on the edge of our seats, and we had a great time.

After the movie, we sat down for a delicious dinner prepared by my mum. We talked, laughed and shared stories from school. When it was time to say goodbye, I felt a little sad, but also incredibly happy.

“This was one of the best days of my life,” I told my friends as they left. “Thank you all for coming.”

As I reflected on the day, I realised that even though I couldn’t visit the northern areas, I had created beautiful memories with my friends. Hosting the winter party turned out to be the highlight of my holidays.

I encourage everyone to try hosting a party during their holidays. It’s a great way to have fun and connect with friends and family. Enjoy your winter break to the fullest!

Published in Dawn, Young World, December 28th, 2024