Everyone can relate to the bitter feeling of dragging yourself out of bed on a cold December morning and groaning at the idea of having to drive to school for another full day of work.  Everyone can relate to the feeling of relief the thought of winter break sparks in the hearts of people of all ages.  The only problem is: Getting there.  December can drag on for what feels like an eternity.  Everyone is anxiously awaiting the holidays, and cannot wait for a little time off before jumping back into classes in January.  This often causes people to miss all the wonderful things December has to offer.  Here are ten things to keep you preoccupied and while awaiting December 23rd…

Listening to Christmas Music  

I think we all can agree that there is nothing better than turning your car in and hearing the sounds of the season pour through the radio.  Whether you celebrate Christmas, or not, songs such as “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” and “Jingle Bell Rock” can always put you in a good mood.  

Baking Cookies

Everyone’s favorite cookies are officially back in season!  If you’ve never had these you’re missing out!

Peppermint Everything

Peppermint foods are EVERYWHERE.  Just to name a few: peppermint bark, peppermint mocha, peppermint hot chocolate, peppermint ice cream, peppermint soap, peppermint candles, peppermint air freshener, peppermint oreos, peppermint M&M’s, peppermint hershey kisses, etc.  

Christmas Decorations

Nothing screams “Christmas” like a house decked out from outside to in with christmas lights and decorations.  These festive features put everyone in the holiday spirit and only make the excitement for Christmas grow.    

Sweater Weather

It is officially acceptable to wear sweaters of all shapes and sizes.  Especially ugly ones!  

Fuzzy Socks

There is nothing better than throwing on a pair of fuzzy socks and watching your favorite christmas movie!  

Good Deals EVERYWHERE

This one is debatable.  Many people despise going to the mall from Black Friday to December 24th due to the extensive amount of people filling the already jam packed shops and boutiques.  However, for those who tough it out, amazing deals can be found in abundance in almost every store.  From Pandora’s sale on braceletes to Victoria Secret’s annual holiday giveaways, good deals are not hard to find.  

Good Food

With the Christmas approaching quickly, many people begin to cook as early as December first!  Food that can be reheated weeks later is often frozen to avoid rushing around last minute.  What exactly is the advantage to this?  Good food is left everywhere!  Many people over cook, or make some extra in order to avoid making dinner for a night.  As a result, good smells and tastes come anew with every day.    

Secret Santa

The only thing better than giving you best friends gifts is giving your best friends gifts anonymously and watching how happy and grateful they are for what you’ve done for them.  Participating in events such as Secret Santa are what makes Christmas such a fun holiday to celebrate.  The true joy of giving can be felt through this western Christmas tradition that has been occurring for decades!    

The Christmas Spirit

Whether you celebrate Christmas, or not, there is no denying that the spirit of this holiday fills the air with joy and people with love.  The month of December is the time to give back and be thankful for all you have been provided with.  This spirit is strong enough to fill everyone with the warmth of kindness, forgiveness, and the willingness to reconnect.  There is no better time of year than the holiday season.  This year, sit back and relax as you watch the beauty and true magic of this holiday unfold in the world around us!