Five Cheap and Easy Ways to Get into the Christmas Spirit

It is that time of year again. The hustle and bustle has begun and we are expected to be full of Christmas joy. Sometimes, that Christmas joy is hard to come by. Between shopping, cooking, wrapping, hosting kid's Christmas parties, attending adult Christmas parties, decorating, Christmas cards and various charitable activities, we have a tendency to get a little stressed. Not to mention any life changes we might have been through that could make it very difficult to be in the mood for Christmas. For those of us who are having some difficulty getting in the mood, here are a few tips that could help.

First, listen to Christmas carols. Not necessarily the ones blaring over the intercom at the stores and malls. There are many instrumental cd's that can relax and soothe while still instilling the joy of Christmas. There are also many popular artists with their own versions of Christmas songs. You can usually find something one of your favorite artists has done. Almost any genre of music has something for the holidays.

Second, watch Christmas movies or television specials. There are so many to choose from. You can go classic with Rudolph, the Grinch or "It's a Wonderful Life". If modern is your thing, there is Elf, the Santa Clause series or, my personal favorite, "Olive the Other Reindeer". Shrek also has a holiday special which I cannot wait to see. The options are endless. Also, if television isn't your thing, go see a play or other seasonal concert.

Third, decorate. Nothing says Christmas quite as much as a beautifully decorated tree. It doesn't have to be showroom quality, but it should be personal. Add personal touches in your taste. For example, if you are a country person, use rustic touches. You can use a color scheme or just a little of everything. It doesn't have to be conventional. Due to our limited space, we have a small tree that hangs on the wall. We like to make a fun evening of decorating. Ever since I was a little girl, my family would spend one day or evening listening to Christmas carols while we decorated. We would eat something easy, like ordering pizza, and have a good time. Also, be careful if you have pets or little children, because many decorations and candles can be dangerous. Also, many decorative plants are poisonous.

Fourth, see the lights. Many neighborhoods are decorated with lights for the holidays. If you are fortunate enough to live in one of these areas, you won't even have to use the car. Bundle up and take the family for a beautifully lit walk through the neighborhood. You can also drive to many different displays. Some are run by charities, so you can donate something and enjoy the lights. We have at least one home in our town that has Santa and offers pictures with him. We also have a charity walk through one of our historic neighborhoods. Check your local paper and see what is available in your area.

Last, but not least, donate to charity. One of the best ways to foster Christmas spirit is to quit looking at ourselves. When we think about other people, our spirits generally lift. Donate your time helping at a soup kitchen or homeless shelter, give toys to charities who help those who will not have a Christmas or food to a food bank. Think of something that touches your heart and help. Some charities require training, but most have something that anyone who is willing can do. If you are able, adopt a family that you know will have a very rough Christmas. Those of you who live in a military area could help families who have one or more parents on tour. There are opportunities everywhere. We just have to take advantage of them.

Hopefully, this will help some of you that just can't seem to get in the mood this Christmas season. Merry Christmas to all!