It happens to us all - that slight dampening of our holiday cheer. We are under lots of pressure to get "the perfect" gifts for everyone, remembering the hundred places we have to make appearances over the holiday season, all the in-law's houses we must visit. And yet, we fail to remember that it isn't about any of that. Christmas is about remembering the birth of Jesus, and spending quality time with the ones we love. So, here are a few things to help boost your holiday spirit this year!
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Take time to just sit down and relax in the candlelight and look at your Christmas tree sparkling in the darkness! You will find yourself amazed at how much more it makes you want to look forward to the screams of your kids as they open up their presents on Christmas morning!
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Whether it is going ice-skating with family, a night out with friends, attending a friend's Christmas party - whatever it is, do it. Have fun and forget the stress of your shopping list and to-do list for one day!
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Good music is one of the best-known ways to boost one's spirit so play it often. Crank up the tunes in your car as you drive about running errands, and dance to it at home!
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Nothing kills a spirit more than fighting the crowd, so go months ahead. It's actually best to get a tote especially for Christmas gifts, and throughout the year, when you find sales, buy things (keep a list so you know what you have bought for who) and store them away for Christmas.
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I find it fascinating to watch people's reactions as I greet them with a "Merry Christmas" rather than the "politically correct 'Happy Holidays" I've never found it to be offensive and can't really see how anyone could. So, proudly shout it from the rooftops and don't cower down to those who want to make every little thing something big just to be a pain in our tails!
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Watch a different Christmas movie on each movie night! There are so many great classics, such as "It's A Wonderful Life", "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas", "Charlie Brown's Christmas" and "A Christmas Carol"
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Spending out of your means is a sure-fire way to take your holiday spirit to an all-time low. People shouldn't expect you to get them anything, but even if they do, they shouldn't expect you to spend more on them than what you can afford.
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Volunteer some of your time to help a friend or family member out. Whether it's going to the grocery store for your grandmother or watching your friend's kids while she shops, helping others warms one's heart. And your thoughtfulness will be greatly appreciated.
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Oh, what fun it is to laugh at each other singing, "Santa Claus is coming to town!" You will all have a blast, and take home some wonderful memories!
A cheerful spirit during the Christmas holidays is a good thing to have around, so use these tips and find some of your own to make this holiday season a stress-free one!
Top Photo Credit: StyleLine Magazine