Hearts of the Herd: Surviving Winter Break

Q: Dear Daisy, my boyfriend’s family invited me to their house for the holidays, but I’m nervous about meeting them for the first time. What can I do to make a good impression? 

– Newbie Narwhal ’26

A: Important question, Narwhal. An easy way to break the ice is to bring a gift. Something that speaks to their personal interests or something from your own home to show you’re grateful for the invitation and wanting to get close to the family. It can be helpful to think about some topics of conversation beforehand if you’re nervous about not knowing what to say. Brainstorming some fun topics like your boyfriend’s baby pictures or stories about yourself and your family are both great ways to begin to feel closer to everyone in an authentic way. Ultimately, be yourself and let your personality shine — they want to get to know who you are!

Q: Dear Daisy, my girlfriend is going to Italy for study abroad next semester, and I’m nervous she’ll find a handsome Italian man there and leave me. What can I do before she goes? 

– Uncertain Unicorn ’27

A: Hi, Unicorn! I can understand why you might be worried — those Italian stallions are hard to resist. In all seriousness, my best advice for you is to talk to her and see what she thinks about your relationship at this point. You’ll never know if she’s planning to separate before the break or feels even more committed to you in light of the distance. And, frankly, I'm sure she'll be flattered by your honesty and even jealousy — nothing like the threat of a hot foreign man to spice things up. Maybe she’ll appreciate you more after the trip. Try to focus on what you have now, and maybe you’ll end up with a trip to Italy over spring break!

Q: Dear Daisy, I’m planning to get gifts for my friends, but one of them has everything already! What can I do? 

– Worrying Wallaby ’29

A:  Great question, Wallaby! This can be a tough position to be in, but I would say an experience, especially shared with a good friend, is a unique and special gift. How about a trip to an art museum or a gift card to go rock climbing? Maybe you can try a cooking class or a yoga session at the gym together. A joint experience could make your friend feel appreciated and loved the most! Any sort of activity that you both will find fun and exciting will probably top any material gift they’ve already been given. 

Q: Dear Daisy, I met a girl at a holiday party, but I don’t know how to talk to her again. With the break coming up, and with us living far away from each other, I won’t be able to see her. What should I do to keep the momentum going during the hiatus from school? 

– Captivated Camel ’28

A: Tough question, Camel. I would first say you should make sure to express your interest in her. People will always appreciate a partner that can be honest with their feelings. Secondly , I recommend messaging her or sending her a cute holiday card in the mail. A sentimental, thoughtful letter can really be the thing to go the extra mile for a relationship — it shows you care and are thinking of her even when you’re not near each other.

If you’re missing quality time together, platforms like Teleparty and GamePigeon can be a game-changer. My final piece of advice is to consider planning some times to chat at the end of a long day — never underestimate the power of hearing your partner’s voice over the phone as opposed to just texting!

Q: Dear Daisy, my boyfriend and I decided on no gifts this year to save money, but I spotted the Lego set I’ve been wanting in his room. Do  I need to scramble to get a gift before winter break? What do I do, Daisy? 

– Broke Beaver ’29

A: Hmm…well, Beaver, this is a tough one. But it has happened to many before, so it's important to think about. First, you should confirm the gift is for you. What if it's for his sister or a friend? With that out of the way, if it is for you, try to find something old you have and give it to him (bonus points if you tell him it's a family heirloom). Otherwise, if you’re fed up with the situation, you can use this as a chance to start a fight and break up with him. Happy gifting!

Q: Hi, Daisy. My friend ate the last of the peppermint bark. How do I get back at her? – Vengeful Vulture ’27

A: Oh, well I wouldn’t say “getting back at her” is the best way to go about this. If you’d like to maintain your relationship, it’s probably better to mend issues and communicate with words and compassion. Though, if that isn't your vibe, feel free to go crazy.