“Why are you smiling like that?”
“I just like it. Smiling’s my favorite.”
– Buddy the Elf

November’s coming to a close. You might now be realizing that Christmas is just 26 days away, and there’s not much time left to prepare.

As December progresses, stress might start to pile up on you. After all, you’re balancing work and family commitments, managing your home, shopping for the perfect gifts for your loved ones, as well as the constant barrage of Christmas parties that come up (or did, anyways – thanks COVID).

Admittedly, this is a huge bummer, and I think we can all agree that we need to spread as much joy around as possible right now. Here are a few things you can do to get in the Christmas spirit:

  • Give baked goods. They say that the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach, and it’s so true. The great thing is you don’t have to be a great chef to impress the people in your life with a tasty treat. If fact, if you look up no-bake recipes, you can wow everyone without even turning the oven on. Not experienced in the kitchen? Start with a super-simple recipe and perfect it before moving on to something advanced. Check out this collection of recipes!
  • Christmas caroling. If you’re feeling extra bold and can carry a tune, Christmas caroling can be a fun way to get into the Christmas spirit! Have a few people in your circle join you!
  • Volunteer at a soup kitchen. So many people don’t have the luxury of a hot meal, or even a warm place to stay during the coldest times of the year. Soup kitchens are always looking for help, and if you take precautions you can give back without putting your health at risk. A quick Google search and a few phone calls will put you in touch with places in your area that could use you.
  • Donate to those in need. By the end of December, most of us will have so many new gifts! Why not make room in advance? Go through your closets and donate the stuff you’re not using anymore! Most needed items: Coats, blankets, hats, gloves/mittens, scarves, housewares. If you can, donate much-needed lifesavers like disposable masks, disinfectant wipes/sprays, disposable gloves, toilet paper/paper towels.
  • Check in on your elderly family/friends. Many elderly people get neglected this time of year. Why not pay them a visit, or if you want to play it safe, give them a call to chat?
  • Watch Christmas movies. What better way to get into the Christmas spirit than watching classics like How the Grinch Stole Christmas, A Miracle on 34th Street, or Frosty the Snowman? Obviously, this is not an exhaustive list – but pick your favorite lineup, make a cup of hot cocoa and some popcorn and make an evening of celebrating this beautiful season.

Remember, we’re probably never going to have another Christmas season quite like this. Although it’s disappointing that we can’t celebrate in our usual way, we can still make this season as festive as possible.

One of the ways that we spread cheer all through the year is by helping people just like you to secure their financial future. So, give us a call at 513-563-PLAN (7526) or go online and book a quick chat with us today to get started.

Regards,
Nikki Earley, CFP®