Christmas is quickly approaching and it feels like a race against time. SLOW DOWN GIRL! The Christmas season is so short and if we keep rushing through it we will miss all of the hope and joy that it brings. I have a created a couple ways you can savor the season and thoroughly create memories.
HALLMARK CHANNEL - In my house the girls and I love Hallmark Channel and holiday movies in general. We make it a point to watch a movie every night, even if we aren’t giving it our FULL attention (they are typically doing homework) we still enjoy watching the movies together.
ADVENT ACTIVITIES - You do not have to be a member of a church to check out some of the advent celebrations that are taking place during the month of December. This month there are so many events taking place to celebrate the REAL reason for this magical time of year. Check out a church in your area and take a peek at the events that are scheduled for the month. The best part is they are typically for the entire family to enjoy!
READ A BOOK - An inspirational book that speaks of love, hope and just fully inspires you is a good way to keep the magic flowing. Currently, I am reading “Becoming” by Michelle Obama (you should be reading it too!).
SANTA'S VILLAGE - Just about every town/village that has a train running through it has a Christmas Celebration. There is usually a Santa a couple elves, hot chocolate and crafts. Take your kiddos out to checkout one of these events. I am sure they will enjoy it! (Illinois Residents)
COUNTDOWN - There are so many creative ways to countdown the days until Christmas. You can use this as an opportunity to connect. I haven’t decided what we are doing but we have literally a day to get it together! Amazon has a ton of Advent Calendars or you can get creative yourself.
HEAD TO THE THEATER - There are a ton of holiday movies and live theater productions. This will give you a reason to get out of the house.
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (THIS WAS GREAT)
The Grinch
Mary Poppins
Emerald City Theatre presents Ken Ludwig’s ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas (CHICAGO)
Q Brothers Christmas Carol (CHICAGO, THIS WAS GREAT)
CHECK OUT THE LIGHTS - Every major city has a suburb that really gets into the holiday spirit with decked out homes lit in Christmas garnish! Look for those homes, pack up the kids, stop at starbucks, turn on Christmas music and take a ride through these neighborhoods. To make the most out of the ride, BLAST the heat and let the windows down!
SPIRIT OF GIVING - You don't have to do anything that requires a lot of money or attention. Just think of a way you can give back and execute.
BAKE IT UP - Google up some recipes, turn on the holiday music, get your cookie cutters out (or buy some) and back up cakes, cookies and pies. This pairs well with holiday movies.
S'MORES - Light up the fireplace or purchase a s'mores maker kit (KIT HERE) and make smores. I like to buy an assortment of chocolates to give it a twist.
So often during this time I find adults suck up all the available moments during this season with events with our social circles and we limit the kiddos to a picture with Santa and we are done. THIS YEAR, take a moment to enjoy the season in a way that the entire family feels the magic...Consider easing up on bedtime this month. I hope this gets you excited for December!
BONUS**
Here is a list of Places to go (CHICAGOLAND) that are completely full of Christmas Magic that your family will love!
WINTER WONDERFEST AT NAVY PIER | NOV. 30 2018 - JAN. 6, 2019
WONDERLAND EXPRESS AT CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN | NOV. 23 2018 - JAN. 6, 2019
MENORAH LIGHTING | DEC. 2, 2018
CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD | NOV. 15, 2018 - JAN. 6, 2019
HOLIDAY MAGIC AT BROOKFIELD ZOO | SELECT DATES DEC. 1 - 31, 2018
ZOOLIGHTS AT LINCOLN PARK | UNTIL JAN 6, 2019
ILLUMINATION: TREE LIGHTS AT MORTON ARBORETUM (PURCHASE TIX HERE)
