Christmas Spirit is not something that can be purchased, despite elaborate commercials that depict otherwise. The joys, happiness, goodwill, and comforts of the season are available to everyone, regardless of resources. With everyone rushing about to this door-busting special and that holiday soiree, finding and embracing the Spirit of Christmas can be a challenge. Here are a few ways to conjure Father Christmas into your hearts this season without spending a dime.
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| RSVP cast for the staged reading of Jim Langer's adaptation of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" |
1. In our town, we have a community theatre group that stages a reading of a local adaptation of "A Christmas Carol." The event is free. I've been working on my received British pronunciation, as I am serving as this year's production's narrator. Many communities have free events such as this. Find out what is available in your town or city and take advantage of it.
Take It A Step Further: Audition for such a production or volunteer to help out behind the scenes.
2. Bundle up warmly and take a brisk winter walk around your neighborhood after supper. Not only will it aid in digestion, but you can enjoy your neighbor's brightly lit holiday decorations. You will notice much more on foot than if you drove around in your car.
Take It A Step Further: Send your neighbors a note to let them know how much you enjoyed their displays.
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| Many holiday classics air over and over on television throughout the season. |
3. Make hors d'oeuvres out of leftovers in the fridge and then watch a favorite holiday movie--a DVD you already own or one of the many movies various stations air during the holiday season.
Take It A Step Further: Invite neighbors, nearby relatives, or a few friends to watch the movie with you and have them bring repurposed leftovers, too.
4. Participate in a Red Cross Holiday Mail for Heroes event. Red Cross offices across the country hold events to create holiday greetings for our armed forces and their families.
Take It One Step Further: Volunteer to help your local Red Cross chapter hold events, sort cards, and coordinate delivery to our service men and women and military families.
5. Spend some time with older folks in the community who may live alone. Visit their home or visit a local assisted living community. Share stories about holiday traditions, fun recipes, and favorite songs of the season.
Take It One Step Further: Volunteer to visit on a regular basis throughout the year.
One last thing: Congratulations to our friend Matt Hanson and his Northwood High School choral students for winning a local singing contest and a $5000 award for their school. Their YouTube video is sure brighten your holidays!
Take It A Step Further: Share this video and brighten a friend's day, too!
Micki Bare, mother of three, wife, daughter & writer is the author of Thurston T. Turtle children's books.
Email: mickibare (at) gmail.com
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Copyright 2014 Michele Bare
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