Getting into the Christmas Spirit

Some people find it hard to get into the Christmas spirit, which is understandable. It’s not a joyful season for everyone and I will admit that I haven’t felt in a Christmassy mood every year. So for those wanting to get into the spirit or just looking for something to do this time of year I’ve made a list of things that help me get into the spirit but also just enjoy doing in general at this time of year.

Baking Biscuits:

Now this is obviously something you can do all year round but I usually don’t get around to it or don’t have time. However, at Christmas, I feel a need to bake some. Personally I prefer making the biscuits myself. I have in the past bought premade dough but I tend to find that they just dissolve in ones mouth but not in a good way. This year I decided to make double-chocolate-balls, almond-blood orange biscuits and nut stars dipped in chocolate. I know they’re not what one would consider traditional Christmas biscuits but they’re still very delicious.

Decorating the Christmas tree:

This is probably a bit of an obvious one. Having said that I haven’t actually decorated a Christmas tree in years. That is not to say I haven’t had a tree in years, it’s just that my parents have decorated it because when I do it it honestly looks messy. However, I do decorate other parts of the house like the dining area and the living room - well the parts not taken up by the tree. So maybe I should have named this segment “decorating”. I find it really relaxing especially as I like to put Christmas music on while I decorate. I also like that my family and I decorate together so it’s a fun family event.

Christmas market:

I’ve seen loads of pictures on Instagram of really pretty looking markets with a ton of lights and Christmas trees. The ones in the towns near me aren’t quite as sparkly but I still enjoy myself, especially when I can go with someone who doesn’t mind going past the same stands multiple times because you couldn’t make up your mind the first time around. I think this is something fun to do with someone but also by yourself, in particular if you’re looking for Christmas presents for people.

Christmas Films:

Again this is probably rather obvious but it very requires very little effort which is really nice at this busy time of year. For a list of suggestions check out my previous post: Top 10 Christmas films. It's great because you can do it alone or with as many people as you want. Also you can dress in the most comfy clothes you own!

Candle dipping:

This is something I used to do every year when I was in primary school. My school used to have the containers in which you heat the wax in the bicycle cellar. If I remember correctly every class had a time slot. I have found out since that that is not the norm and that most other primary schools in the area went to a public candle dipping. This year I went for the first time in years and I can’t believe how much I missed it and that it took me so long to do it again. For this activity I recommend doing it with someone or even a group of people.

Mince pies:

This is probably more of a british tradition. Firstly, what even is a mince pie? Well imagine a mini pie made with puff pastry, filled with various dried fruits, distilled spirits and spices - for some reason the mixture that goes in the pie is called mincemeat...don’t ask me why - and violà! You have a mince pie! My family and I have made these every year to try and bring some british traditions into the season.

I hope you found something that might get you in the Christmas spirit and let me know what you do to get the Christmassy feeling going!

Wishing you a lovely day

Shaura