by Leneah Willis

Created on: November 23, 2009   Last Updated: November 24, 2009

I love getting ready for Christmas. The smell of pine needles and holly, and a warm cup of hot coco gets me into the Holiday season. but there are so many simple ways to get into that wonderful holiday season that will be here before you know it!

LISTEN TO CHRISTMAS MUSIC

On the radio they start as early as the first week of November to play Christmas music. And the best part of listening to Christmas is that it reminds us of our childhood. They continue to play the same music every year.

PUT YOUR CHRISTMAS LIGHTS UP

Before it gets to cold outside go ahead and put your lights on your house. You don't have to do as much as the Griswald's do. But this will help with getting into the spirit.

PARTICIPATE IN A LOCAL EVENT

Every town or city will have events going on before Christmas. Whether it be a play like the nutcracker or going to see Santa at the mall. If you have children they will remember what they did with you to get ready for Christmas. Check your local newspaper and see what is going on in your town. You will be surprised how much people actually do!

BAKE FOR YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS

Cooking your favorite treats for your friends and neighbors is a great way to show appreciation. If you have a favorite Christmas cookie, find the recipe and try to make it yourself. maybe even try that famous fruit cake!

SEND OUT YOUR CHRISTMAS CARDS

You can send out all your Christmas cards to your friends and family. If you are not gift giving this year, this is the best way to say to them that you thought of them. You don't even have to buy the cards. For a more special touch try crafting the cards yourself.

GO CHRISTMAS CAROLING

This old tradition is fun for everyone! Gather your friends, (even if they can't carry a note) and make a list of songs to sing. You can go around the neighborhood and sing to your fellow neighbors.

DONATE GIFTS

There is always a shortage of gifts that people receive. Whether it be because they just do not have the money this year or they are homeless and live in a shelter, or live in an orphanage. Try to put a smile on someone else's face this year. I am sure that you will feel like Santa to them!

ARTS AND CRAFTS

If you have children there is no better way to spend time with them. Making arts and crafts gives them many helpful learning tools for the future. Teach them how to make decorating items that they can hang around the house or give to others for gifts.

Whatever it is that you decide to do Christmas is time to spend with friends and family and to learn and aprecate what Christmas really means.

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