As fall weaves its way into winter, November marks the beginning of an end. With the year winding to a close, we have tangerine leaves and crisp air to remind us that a new chapter awaits us. I have always loved seeing the contrast of of warm foliage against the cool weather, and this year I was lucky enough to celebrate the beauty of Autumn in Paris.

After four months of not seeing his French derrière, I finally got to see my boyfriend in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. From fromage comas and fountains of wine to shopping and endless cigarettes (even the French make carcinogens look chic), the week was nothing shy of, well, the best week of my life.

Seven days of grubbing, boozing, sightseeing and so forth marked the end of my journey and my return to reality–only to be whisked away by the tumultuous holiday season. Saying au revoir to my beau is never easy–in fact, I find it gets harder and harder every time we part ways. Touching down state-side, I quickly repacked and headed for my homeland of Georgia for some good old fashioned southern cuisine.

And as many American families do, mine takes the time for everyone to awkwardly admit what he or she is thankful for this Thanksgiving. Between the gloomy economy and plummet of the job market–not to mention I was seriously missing Paris and the boyfriend–it is easy to get caught up in what you don’t have.

As we went around the table, I listened to my family proudly say what they were thankful for: good health, my safe journey across the pond, our Labrador Daisy’s precious puppies. That being said, I thought my first Editor’s Note would be a celebration of what we all can and should be thankful for: family, friends, love, education and, of course, laughter. Whether your dog ate your homework, your roommate stained your favorite dress or Mom won’t stop pestering you about upcoming finals–keep in mind that those little things…are just little things.

Let’s be thankful for the here and now, and when the going gets tough, remember that whatever is bringing you down will only be a small road bump in the grand scheme of life. I’m no life coach, just a small town girl with big dreams, who wants to share my up’s and down’s with you. So, like Rabelais says, “Laugh and face it out boldly whatever it may be.” And whatever it may be, don’t sweat it–there will be much bigger hurdles that await you.

From me to you, Happy Thanksgiving, safe travels and good luck studying you, scholars, you!

GET SCHOOLED.

- Brittanae Casper (Editor-in-chief)