After an exhausting fall quarter of homework and midterms, it’s only natural to want to spend winter vacation sprawled out on a couch with the remote permanently affixed to your hand.

Break can be the perfect time to catch up on some much needed rest and relaxation. But this December, why not take a break from watching CSI reruns and use your temporary freedom to get involved in the community or get back into shape? There are plenty of activities to choose from that will help you make the most of your break. Here’s a few ideas generated by fellow Huskies and our Seattle neighbors:

Get into the spirit of the holiday season by helping those in need. The United Way organization of King County encourages locals to adopt a family in North Seattle. People can sign up to adopt a family at the United Way’s Web site and volunteer to provide clothing, food items or gifts to low-income individuals. The donations are tax-deductible and must be dropped-off at the North Seattle Family Center by Dec. 19.

“Every day, especially as it gets closer to the holidays, there’s always something awesome that happens that’ll remind you why you did it,” said Jaci Dahlvang, the Event Coordinator for the North Seattle Family Center.

Enjoy your pumpkin pie and candy canes, but avoid packing on extra pounds by starting a new workout plan. Exercising can turn into a memorable family affair. Round up your visiting relatives and go for a walk around Green Lake or stroll through the neighborhood admiring the decorations.

Take part in the 24th Annual Jingle Bell Run and Walk to raise money for the Arthritis Foundation. Participants can choose to run or walk a 5-kilometer route. The event is on Dec. 14. Registration begins at 6:45 a.m. at Westlake Center.

Hit the mall and apply for a seasonal position at a department store to make some cash.

“Last year I worked at Old Navy for a week for the holiday rush to make some extra money,” said Liz Roderick, a UW junior. Lots of stores are desperate for part-time workers this time of year and applications for temporary positions are becoming available. Holiday shopping can really eat away at a student’s budget. Finding a source of additional income can be essential, so check your local classified ads.

Immerse yourself in culture and bask in the delicious cinnamon scent at Seattle’s Gingerbread Village. From Nov. 23 to Jan. 2, the Sheraton Hotel on Sixth Avenue in downtown is hosting a “Holidays Around the World” exhibit and will display gingerbread art created by different architectural firms, trade associations and culinary workers.

UW sophomore AJ Fraiman said, “I feel that it is important to spend time and catch up with friends and family over break, because while you’re at school, you tend to drift away from the ones you love.”

Schedule bonding time with your friends and take advantage of living in the city. Buy some fresh ingredients at Pike Place Market and cook a meal together from scratch. Go to the Food Network’s Web site and find easy meal recipes.

Whatever you decide to do this year, have fun and try to stay safe and dry. But remember to use your free time wisely. Though it’s heartbreaking to think about, winter quarter will be here before you know it.