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The holiday season is a magical time filled with joy, laughter and festive cheer. But let's be real, not everyone feels like Buddy the Elf from the get-go. So we’re here to ease the transition from Grinch to merry-maker. Fear not, we have some thoughts, tips and a tasty holiday punch that will have your heart growing three sizes in no time.
Getting It All Done With A Smile
With so many wonderful holiday and year-end events on the horizon, it can be overwhelming to wrap your head around all the possibilities and responsibilities coming your way. If baking teacher’s gifts, sending holiday cards and attending every event leaves you forgetting to replace your Elf On The Shelf, it’s OK — you’re not alone. Two out of three people describe their stress level as “very or somewhat” elevated during the holidays, according to a Harvard Medical School study.
When stress levels are peaking, do like Santa and make a list. Jot down your holiday-related tasks and your family’s favorite activities complete with deadlines on the calendar. Then, check it twice to ensure things are prioritized according to your goals. If and when things get hectic, ask yourself if there are any elves to whom you could delegate tasks like gift wrapping or general errand running. Getting organized can help ease your mind while you happily check off those festive to-dos.
Remember, it’s OK to politely decline invitations and requests, especially when those commitments interfere with your own to-do lists. Don’t forget to schedule some much-deserved peppermint latte me-time to keep your own spirits bright.
Say No To Elf Envy
For many children, the countdown to Christmas officially begins with the first sighting of an Elf On The Shelf. The hide-and-seek-styled phenomenon has kids scouting for elvin magic and parents sweating the details since they first hit the market in 2005. Stop losing sleep over what your elf will do next and join in on the fun by purchasing one of many creative activity kits found online. Each 12- or 24-day kit comes with a flurry of costumes, props and scenes that will amaze your kids all season long.
Tis’ The Season For Quality Time
Childhood memories are lasting memories that often come from the greatest gifts and attending amazing shows. However, the hours spent finding that gift or those perfect seats are often done alone and leave you drained. Don’t forget that it's not always about what you spend but rather how you spend your time together. Be sure to carve out time to slow things down and really connect with loved ones during every moment, big or small.
Quality time starts with decorating your home, and even the most daunting tasks can be made fun. Start early and enlist the entire family to take part in placing heirlooms and beloved decorations throughout the house. Special ornaments, photos and other trinkets provide the perfect opportunity to share stories your kids will remember for a lifetime.
Baking with your children is another great way to get into the festive spirit while filling the house with the scents of your most treasured recipes. Bake an extra batch of cookies for a friend or neighbor and make a point to deliver it together as a family. A movie or game night is the perfect complement to a plate full of fresh cookies. Pull out an old board game and give it a spin, then follow up with an airing of mom or dad’s most beloved holiday specials from their childhoods.
Holiday Habits Worth Having
A few small moments together can add up to a season’s worth of special memories.
- Read your favorite holiday stories before bedtime.
- Fill out and send a few greeting cards together each night.
- Set out and complete a winter-themed puzzle in the family room.
- Bake and eat some Christmas cookies.
- Instant cocoa equals instant smiles.
- Shop for distant family members together.
- Drop off some unwrapped toys and games to a worthy charity.
- Take the scenic route and enjoy more decorated holiday homes.
- Choose a holiday series to binge-watch together.
The Spirit Of The Season
It goes without saying that giving is receiving, especially when it comes to the holidays. While you’re out shopping around Southlake Town Square or Park Village, make a point to give a little extra when you can — it goes a long way.
Many families are lacking in food and presents during the winter — that’s why several area nonprofits are hosting donation drives to directly support those who need it most. One of the longest-running campaigns is GRACE’s Christmas Cottage, which has given thousands of toys, home goods and appliances to families every year since 1986. Big givers can donate items directly at their donation station in Grapevine, or take a shift at the cottage anytime before Dec. 22.
Southlake DPS will also be hosting its own food and donation drives at its central, North and West facilities up until Christmas Eve, and you can volunteer to drive either for Metroport Meals On Wheels or Call A Ride Southlake. If you’re looking to get even more involved, SafeHaven of Tarrant County has several opportunities to serve families in crisis, whether that involves preparing and serving meals or helping children with tutoring and homework.
Whether you’re donating time, treasure or talent, there are several ways to pay it forward this time of year — and you’ll be grateful that you did.
Giving With GRACE
Wondering what to donate to your local drive? The GRACE Christmas Cottage has put together this helpful list. Don’t underestimate the power of gift cards, which are great for hard-to-shop-for teens. And don’t forget to add batteries when needed.
- Board, party and card games.
- Stuffed animals.
- Children’s and young adult books.
- Bicycles, scooters and skateboards.
- Electronic tablets.
- Extra comforters and blankets.
- Handheld toys and sports balls.
- STEM and discovery sets.
- Remote control cars, planes and helicopters.
Cheers To Holiday Hosting
The holidays are the best time to gather with family and friends. And as the host, that should mean you too. You’ve set the scene, sent the invites and pre-planned the menu. So when the party starts, break away from the kitchen and bartending duties and get into the festivities. To ensure an easy transition from party planner to partygoer, try these simple steps.
Having a themed drink upon arrival is a great way to welcome guests without the awkward “what will you have?” line of questioning. A thoughtfully curated holiday punch or two can be made in advance, providing a timely and festive option as everyone settles in.
Strategically place some heavy hors d'oeuvres, charcuterie and desserts throughout your home to encourage guests to mix and mingle. Take the same care with well-placed waste baskets, and the cleanup crew (you) will thank you later.
If you’ve invited groups who’ve never intermingled before, try the great icebreaker game Jingle Mingle Bingo. Printable holiday bingo card generators are available online for free. With a few worthy prizes and scoring spaces like “loves peppermint,” “collects snow globes” and many more options, your guests are sure to find common ground and lots of laughs in no time.
A Cocktail With Some Punch
Serves 8-10 people
- 1.5 cups gin
- 1.0 cups champagne
- 1.0 cups club soda
- 0.75 cups fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 cups simple syrup
- 8 dashes of Old Fashioned Bitters
- Garnish with whole star anise and grated nutmeg
Popping The Christmas Question
Finding the perfect gift for your loved ones can be a daunting task. You want to give them something meaningful, but asking them directly might spoil the surprise. Thankfully, a few workarounds make it easier for you to take hold of the reins so your sleigh and shopping cart keep soaring.
For starters, sticking with something they already love is an easy win. Replacing worn-out running shoes, beloved sweatshirts and pajamas or long-used yoga mats, they’re sure to appreciate a new and upgraded version.
Take special note of any new interests or budding hobbies casually mentioned in conversation or through their favorite social media accounts. Your gift could be a thoughtful nudge toward something like gardening, crafting cocktails or a new sport — maybe even pickleball?
AI can also help fill in the blanks for you. Just answer a few simple questions with the “gift-finding tool” at UncommonGoods.com or WTFDoTheyWant.com, and harness the power of the internet. The story alone is worth it, and if it goes sideways, you can always blame technology.
You can also gain some insight by asking around. Try a friend or coworker who may have some ideas you haven’t considered. Or alternatively, ask your loved one what they might buy for their own pals to broaden your scope. And if all else fails, enlist the kids. What you’ll lack in subtlety will be made up for in cuteness.
Tipping Points
Whether it’s your babysitter, hair stylist, housekeeper or anyone else who makes your year better, tipping service providers a little extra during the holidays is a great way to show gratitude and appreciation for a job well done. Roughly half of U.S. adults say they typically give higher-than-usual tips to at least one special service provider this time of year.
Of course it’s the thought that counts, however, a good rule of thumb is to gift the equivalent of one day’s pay or an amount that is equal to what it would cost for one of their regular services. Tip amounts from mail carriers to child care providers generally range between $20-$50.
A Minimalist Makeover
From the twinkling lights to the ornaments on the Christmas tree, part of the holiday magic lies in its presentation. But you don’t have to stick to traditional reds and greens to feel festive. Feel free to embrace new ideas and re-elevate your seasonal decor.
Becca Anderson, owner of The Christmas Shoppe in Southlake, has seen a gradual shift from traditional vibrant color schemes to more monochromatic themes filled with hues of champagne, silver and platinum. Just like the colors themselves, less is more when it comes to decorating your tree. Instead of overdoing it with the ornaments, many are choosing a minimalist Scandinavian approach that is gaining in popularity. Accent your tree with simple garlands, craft paper decorations and frosted pines for a warm, natural and oh-so-simple look.
“In general, the trend is leaning more towards simplicity,” Becca says. “People just want to be less busy, both literally and decoratively.”
Home decorators don’t have to feel limited to just one aesthetic. Whether you combine glass ornaments with paper chains or jingle bells, Becca encourages people to combine different styles and discover what works best for their own winter wonderland.
“It’s actually really popular right now to mix upscale and homey aesthetics together,” Becca says. “People shouldn’t be afraid of trying something different.”
Hallmark Moments
Whether you’re filling out Christmas cards or watching overly romantic holiday movies, there are many ways to fill your days with a joyful holiday vibe. Reminisce with classic movies like “Miracle On 34th Street” or share your inner child with specials like “Frosty The Snowman” and “How The Grinch Stole Christmas.” Create a playlist of your favorite yuletide songs and take Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole or, dare we suggest, Taylor Swift’s “Christmas Tree Farm” along for the errand run.