It feels like Christmas comes sooner and sooner every year. With the big day right around the corner, I’ve compiled a list for all of you Grinches out there. So hurry up and read this so your hearts can grow three sizes and people will stop looking at me like I’m crazy for humming “Jingle Bells” in public.
1. Deck the Halls
Putting up the tree is a given, but there are so many other ways to make your home come alive with Christmas cheer. Lighting a few balsam-scented candles and hanging some paper snowflakes will transform your home into a winter wonderland. I also live by the rule of when in doubt, wrap Christmas lights around it.
2. Make a List and Check It Twice
I can’t believe I’m saying this, but giving is better than receiving. The best way to get into the Christmas spirit is by picking out something special for the people you love. My tip is to get all of your gifts online, because nothing ruins the Christmas mood like going to the mall and having to deal with crowds of people. (Unless you are going to the mall specifically to get a picture with Santa. You can never be too old for that.)
3. The Season of Giving
Besides giving to the people you love, giving back to the community is always guaranteed to fill your heart with joy. Whether you are donating to your favorite charity or volunteering at your local soup kitchen, helping others is what Christmas is all about.
4. Calories Don’t Count in December
It’s Christmastime and I have no patience for your diet. Making Christmas cookies or decorating a gingerbread house during the Christmas season is simply the best! With a cute Christmas apron on and your favorite Christmas movie playing in the background, you are guaranteed to have yourself a spirit-filled and tasty day!
5. Take in the Scenery
Something that I love to do with my family is putting on a pair of Christmas pajamas, filling up a mug with hot chocolate and getting in the car to drive around the neighborhood and admire the Christmas displays. With your favorite Christmas music playing, you would literally have to be the Grinch not to feel a Christmas tingle in your heart.
6. Make Christmas Cards and Wrap Presents
With a little glue and some glitter, you can make your own Christmas cards and spread the Christmas cheer with your friends and family on a budget. Just make sure to use a sealant like Modge Podge to keep the glitter in place, or you will end up glitter bombing the recipient.
7. Share the Christmas Magic
Although Christmas might not be as magical as it was for us when we were kids, it’s a different kind of magic taking part in making Christmas special for the youngsters in the family. Besides reading a Christmas story out loud, a fun way to get kids excited for Christmas is to make “Reindeer Dust.” Just put some oats and glitter in a sandwich bag and tell the kids to spread it outside on Christmas Eve so that Santa’s reindeer will be able to see their house and have a little snack. I used to ask why you would mix something edible with glitter, but most kids aren’t that smart so don’t worry about it.
8. Connect with Others
The Christmas season is all about connecting with others. Throw a Christmas party and have everyone bring a dish, or start a secret Santa with a $25 limit in the office without breaking the bank! Be nicer than you normally are to your Starbucks baristas, smile at strangers, and, for the love of God, call your grandma!
Image Source: Fitzwilton Hotel