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The holidays can be a stressful and sad time for many individuals, from the loss of loved ones to the unfortunate decision of CEOs to lay off their employees during what's supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year. There aren't any perfect words or advice that will help alleviate that pain, but I want to share some things that have cheered many people up or made them forget what they're going through, if even for a split second.
Baking Cookies
From making gingerbread cookies to leaving Chocolate chip cookies and milk for Santa, the thought and smell of cookies can warm your stomach and heart. I'm an absolute lover of chocolate chip cookies, although when I was younger, I'd always want my mom to pick up the Pillsbury - Christmas-inspired ones, now I'm older, I prefer homemade cookies rather than store-bought ones. If you are into baking like me, here's one of my favorite Chocolate Chip cookie recipes from Pinterest:
Volunteering
Helping out at a local food pantry or signing up with organizations that provide toys for kids and food for families is not only a way to give back but also allow you the opportunity to socialize with others, see smiling faces and grateful hearts.
Each city and state have a plethora of opportunities from Toys for Tots to the Salvation Army Angel Tree. Check with your local community and see what you can do to bring a smile to others and possibly yourself.
Christmas Lights
Oh how I loved as a kid going around neighborhoods just to see how others decorated their lawn and house with Christmas lights. Is there a street near you? Or did your city go all out with Christmas lights? If so, hop in your car and go see. I know it sounds like a childish thing to do but who knows it might give you those fond memories that you once had as a kid.
(Image credit: Canva)
Watch Christmas Movies
I happen to think Christmas time is the best time for watching anything from those cheesy Hallmark Holiday movies to binge watching the entire Harry Potter collection. Oh and let's not forget CBS airing Frosty the Snowman and Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer in which those never get old. Who doesn't love National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation? A classic that will forever be hilarious and full of craze. The only movie I can do without each year is, "A Christmas Story" I do not like that one it has to the most boring and whiniest movies I've ever seen lol! However, it is a Christmas movie about a kid getting what he wanted at the end.
My Favorites:
All the Harry Potter Movies
Frosty the Snowman
A Charlie Brown Christmas
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
Home Alone
White Christmas
Go Caroling
Are you a singer? If so, consider going Christmas Caroling with other hummingbirds. If caroling isn't your thing then do what I list next.
Listen to Holiday Music
All I want for Christmas is youuuuuu!!!! This Mariah Carey tune has got to be my favorite Christmas song although, it makes a lot of people cringe but what can you say once you hear it for the first time, it'll be stuck in your head every Christmas from that point.
My Other Favorites:
Boyz II Men - Let It Snow
Nat King Cole - The Christmas Song
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas - Luther Vandross
Santa Baby - Eartha Kitt
Give Love on Christmas Day - Johnny Gill
It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas - Michael Buble
Jingle Bell Rock - Daryl Hall & John Oates
Start your own Traditions
If all else fails then it doesn't hurt to start your own that could mean taking a trip, a cruise, having friends over but whatever you do make sure its something that's enjoyable for you. Don't spend this time alone if you have coworkers, friends and family that would give anything to have you as their company.
From Sipofdetechlife, I'd like to wish you all a Happy Holidays and
Merry Christmas
¡Feliz Navidad!
Joyeux Noël!
Frohe Weihnachten! ...
Buon Natale! ...
Feliz Natal! ...
Crăciun Fericit! ...
Счастливого Рождества!