Without Snow outside my door, and record-breaking warmth yet to come, I'm having a hard time feeling that holiday spirit. When you come from a place where cold and snow are commonplace this time of year, it feels like I'm spending the holidays in a foreign land.
I certainly know snow is really not what it's about, so I'm ignoring the weather, cranking the music, and wrapping presents by the glow of the Christmas tree tonight. The girls are home for winter break(!), my son is spending the night and waking up with us on Christmas morning, just like old times. There's no room for anything but holiday spirit.
Here are some ways to catch—and bring—a little holiday spirit into your home this season.
I certainly know snow is really not what it's about, so I'm ignoring the weather, cranking the music, and wrapping presents by the glow of the Christmas tree tonight. The girls are home for winter break(!), my son is spending the night and waking up with us on Christmas morning, just like old times. There's no room for anything but holiday spirit.
Here are some ways to catch—and bring—a little holiday spirit into your home this season.
- Watch your favorite holiday movies (with snow) dressed in your PJs and snuggled under a pile of blankets.
- Bake some cookies. Whether you slice them or make them from scratch, decorate your creations with lots of frosting, sprinkles and colorful candies. Deliver some goodies to your neighbors and friends. (And don't forget your four-legged friends.)
- Grab some bells. I absolutely love bells and use them wherever and whenever I can. Grab a handful of bells and run around outside as you jingle all the way. Children will be dazzled. (Carry a Bell in your purse. I smile every time I hear mine.)
- Go see a holiday production (check your local school calendar), listen to choir practice, or just sit still in a place that you find peaceful.
- Take a walk through the garden center and breathe in the scent of pine and balsam fir.
- Make mugs of hot chocolate and sit by the fire while you read or chat the night away.
- If you're feeling a bit like scrooge because you didn't get all of the decorating done, sprinkle some glitter over everything and you're sure to feel better.
- Hum your favorite song.
- Volunteer your time. It doesn't have to be this week, but by helping others we often help ourselves in the process.
- Start the new year by simplifying. Clean out closets and drawers and donate clothing, toys, furniture, etc., to your local Good Will.
- Vow to take more photos and video. Look at your neighborhood or town with a new appreciation.
- Write gratitude letters. Take your time, and polish off one once a week. Mail them after the first of the year.
- Start to journal or pick up the habit. You don't need a fancy notebook to write down your thoughts.
