Holiday 2021 List

the 2021 Holiday List

8 ways to tap into that holiday feeling

ef grace. December,2021.

"Velvet & Frost", 2015, ef grace.
acrylic on cardstock

Fa la la la !

It's finally that time again-- time to be merry and bright! Fanciful feelings seem to be just dancing through the air around this time, demanding that we join in.

Still, it's not always easy to hold onto that holiday feeling. Maybe you feel the Grinch has a point or you've just got the winter blues. Times may be rough, or the stress of the season may just eventually drag you down.

So, how do you tap back into that holiday feeling?

1. Reflect on the season.

This time of year is so special to so many. It can hold the keys to your most treasured memories and traditions, or be a special place of reverence in your heart. The holiday season is as much a time of personal reflections as it is a time to be merry with others. Think about why it is special to you. Reflecting on your personal meanings behind "the most wonderful time of the year" can make it that much more authentic and special to you.

2. Music!

At this time, you may find you enjoy hearing those familiar carols more than you thought you would have! Be it the excitement of a jolly favorite, the perfect peace of resonant harmonies, or the powerful swell of an instrument's crescendo, music is bound to move you. That's okay-- bop to the jingle bells anyway and embrace the musical heart of the season!

3. Make a goody basket.

Receiving a handpicked selection of goodies from a dear one can do wonders for a person's soul. Imagine their delight when they uncover a fresh batch of muffins, an assortment of their favorite candies, spiced tea, nuts, and cheeses, or even a home-cooked meal! That special personal effort can be a priceless gift that is warmly remembered!

4. Indulge in at least one sale!

Ah! Holiday shopping: long walks through glowing aisles and malls, pausing to gaze at sparkling goodies among bustling crowds. There might even be Christmas carols streaming or elves ushering your way! Not your thing? Even if you don't step foot in a physical store, online merchants also know just how to sweep you up in holiday fashion!

If you can, set aside a little cash (or credit) for a treat! Many stores and online merchants offer deep sales during the holidays, and this might be just the time to pick up a little something special. Even if it's just a cool little find in the dollar bin, it's still a piece of the moment. So go ahead--pop it into your cart! Whether you're checking off your list, or grabbing a goody for yourself, you'll rush home (or to your home screen) with your treasure!

5. Go to an outdoor tree lighting (or host your own)!

There is something ever-so- magical about the sudden glow of a thousand tiny lights warming up a cold dark sky. One of the few outdoor, pandemic-friendly activities to do on a winter night, it will remind you that life is still beautiful. Top it off with a warm mug of cocoa and a dollop of whipped cream to warm those hands along with those hearts.

6. Reach out!

Mingling doesn't always have to mean drinks with friends or sparking up a conversation with a new flame (though it could!). There are a variety of ways to reach out, share, and receive that holiday spirit! Catch up with your friends online or have a friendly chat with the neighbor. Text an old friend or phone a dear one miles away. Spread a little kindness while out on your errands, or just be out in your community. One spark of happiness follows another!