I sat down to write this week's blog and realized that there are only 12 days remaining until Christmas. Is it just me or has this strange year flown by? Time seems to have sped up and we'll be welcoming in 2021 before we know it. As a country we are being discouraged from traditional large family gatherings and travel this year. I've put together a short list of things you can do with your immediate family to create some memories. Let's get started!
5 Ways to Make Memories this Holiday Season!
#1 Bake Goodies!
One of my fondest memories is being in the kitchen with my mom baking delicious cookies and candy. I remember standing on a chair so I would be tall enough to help her.
She'd roll out the cookie dough and let me cut out stars, reindeer, Santa Claus, snowmen and so many other shapes. It was always exciting when she took out her Christmas Cookie Cutter collection for me to make my selections.
While I was busy cutting out sugar cookies, she'd be mixing up her famous divinity candy or some other delectable treat. Every year, I pay homage to her by putting on an apron and baking some of her favorites.
Check out these Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies featuring browned butter! Click here for the full recipe featured on my October 11th blog.
#2 Call Friends and Family!
What if you called (not texted) someone you care about everyday for the rest of the year? I can almost guarantee that YOUR life will feel richer and you will be happier.
I admit that I embrace technology and will use text for some communication; however, there is nothing as rewarding or memory- making as grabbing my favorite coffee mug and settling in for a real conversation with someone I love. Hearing my granddaughter's excitement when she shares her latest news is priceless. Chatting with my sister and trading recipes is irreplaceable. Catching up with friends that live across the country is so meaningful. Carve out some time and gift yourself genuine communication with others. You will benefit as much as the person you are calling!
#3 Christmas Lights!
In Mobile we are fortunate to have Bellingrath Gardens annual Magic Christmas in Lights display. This walking tour features 3 Million lights and over 1000 set pieces. It has been on many top 10 lists across the country as a"don't miss" if you are in the area. Tickets start at $8 for children and $16 for adults.
If you are looking for other options most of the neighborhoods in West Mobile have gone overboard with decorations. Make some hot chocolate "to go" and load up your family in the car! Put on some Christmas music and watch everyone get in the holiday spirit. Hats off to my neighbors and friends for doing such an outstanding job with decor!
If you cross the Bay into Baldwin County the downtown areas of Fairhope, Foley and The Wharf at Orange Beach definitely have that holiday feel. The Wharf has just kicked off a holiday schedule of fun activities for your family to enjoy! Click here for details.
#4 Start a Family Movie Night
Pop some popcorn and put your favorite Christmas movie on! Watching the antics of Ralphie or laughing at Elf are time honored traditions in many homes. You could do a Christmas movie nightly until the 25th.
Do you want to get out of the house? Our friends out at Loblolly Farm are hosting a movie night featuring How The Grinch Stole Christmas on December 18th. Only $10 a car, movie starts at 6PM. Concessions and more will be available. Click here for more information. Loblolly Farm is located in Semmes, just a short drive from Mobile.
#5 Star Gaze on December 21st
It has been 800 years since Saturn & Jupiter have come so close together. If you venture out on a clear night and gaze into the Southwestern sky you will see the planets moving closer to one another.
Astronomers speculate that on the 21st we will be privy to a great conjunction where the two planets will appear as one. What a wonderful memory to share with your family. Bundle up and head outdoors and do some star gazing!
This event is being called the Christmas Star. Click here for more details.
I am going to leave you with this last suggestion. If you still have some holiday shopping to do then shop local. There are many businesses that have struggled to stay afloat during the pandemic. You know that there are places that you frequent that would be sorely missed if the owners were forced to shutter and close. Here are some ideas and links to help you finish up your list!
Apollo's Paws - Buy your fur-kid a "shower & shave"! Gift certificates are available!
Acme Pressure Washing - Gift your home with a thorough cleaning before the end of the year!
Ashley Scarbrough Independent Mary Kay Consultant has got you covered for gifts!
Avant Tous has gift cards and wonderful offerings for the holidays!
Back on the Rack in Fairhope has gift certificates and fantastic gift options for everyone's budget!
Domke Market has a wonderful selection of wine and gifts! Gift baskets & gift cards are available!
Good Morning Mattress has pillows, linens, mattresses and more! Just in time for the holidays!
The Hickory Pit can help you cook for the holidays and has gift cards available!
Unique Destinations with Adrienne Tate can help you plan a vacation of your dreams!
Have a wonderful week!
~ Charlsie
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