Ways To Enjoy The Holiday Craziness
During this time of year, there are parties to go to, gift exchanges to participate in, and so much baking to do… you feel like Betty Crocker herself. Before you declare “Bah-humbug” and shutter away from all the holiday craziness, think about it another way. Rather than resisting the onslaught of festivities, try embracing it. While there may be a frenzy to the month, it’s there for a reason.
Beat The Winter Blahs
Keep in perspective the fact that December marks the start of winter, a long and dreary time, as well as the end of the year, a time to reflect and celebrate. With that in mind, it’s better to find ways to enjoy the holiday craziness rather than sit out. To help, the following is a list of ideas:
Party time. It’s getting darker earlier, so light it up with some festive parties. It’s fun to host a party and bring loved ones in from the cold or dark to enjoy some sparkle. This time of year, it’s so easy to decorate! The colors available for decorations are bright to shine through the dreariness of winter: sparkling silver, winter white, ruby red, and emerald green blink away the darkness. You can easily dress a table with pine boughs, ribbons, candles, and some blocks of birch wood.
Gifts Galore. While the major gift-giving is traditionally saved for last, there are still plenty of opportunities to give. Gift exchanges are fun activities that bring people together and share in the season of giving. There are also so many different themes to a gift exchange to keep it fresh. For example, there are ones that hide the identity of the gift-givers or a White Elephant exchange that trades gently used items from home. You can also get creative and lead a gift exchange of handmade items or set challenges like a $5 limit. There is even an option to play games in which recipients either keep their gift or “steal” others’ gifts until all have had a turn. It doesn’t have to be much, but it can be tons of fun to incorporate some gift exchanges throughout the month.
Bake Away! In most places, winter is cooler or darn right cold, so it’s a great time of year to fire up the oven and do some baking. There is nothing better than coming home to a house that smells like cookies or fresh bread! Not only is baking a way to keep warm, but it’s also a nice way to give. You can bake batches of holiday cookies or loaves of bread to give away, and this is a very personal and oft appreciated type of gift to receive. Also, this time of year is resplendent with flavor! Seasonal spices like cinnamon, chai, clove, nutmeg, and peppermint are the stars of the season. Of course, you can never go wrong with anything chocolate!
Evening Escapades. Since it does get darker earlier, a wonderful way to enjoy the season is to venture forth in the evenings to view all the holiday light displays. From formal displays by the city to homeowners’ personal front yard decorations, you’ll be sure to see some lights. You can make it easy and just drive around the neighborhoods, or you can travel to venues that offer light shows.
Special Displays. This time of year, many local retail districts participate in the season with festive window displays. Some places will decorate their windows and create scenes to celebrate the season, and others will work together to create a story with each window. It may depend on the weather to view these, but they are fun to see as you stroll along. Also, indoor options exist that may open for special tours this season. Watch for museums, local community centers, or specialty events (like the Holiday Home Showcase) that are open to the public this time of year.
Music Entertainment. The sound of Christmas carols through the speakers of a store pales next to a live concert. From choirs to orchestras, music celebrates the season, and it’s a wonderful way to enjoy and participate in the holidays. Children’s choirs singing or the violin section at a symphony will move you and make memories to last beyond the season.
Participate In The Fun
There are so many activities related to this season, and they don’t last for long. Choose one or more so that you can make the most of the celebration before it’s over. In fact, consider combining, like a gift exchange of baked goods or a tour of the lights that end with a party.
However you choose, just make sure to embrace the craziness so that when it’s over, you have plenty to remember and sustain you through the dark days of winter.