Tag Archives: holiday cheer

Nov26

Get Into The Holiday Spirit

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Get Into The Holiday Spirit

Hi! We are full fledged into the holiday season and I think everyone could use a heaping dose of holiday cheer. This has been a crazy few years, to say the least! Spreading holiday cheer can be with grand gestures, but oftentimes it’s the little things that mean the most. Small acts of kindness that can turn someone’s entire day around. The ideas we’re about to discuss will put you on the Nice List, for sure, but that’s beside the point. It just feels good to do good! Let’s discuss:

Help a Neighbor:

Spreading holiday cheer can start right across the street! Should you have a neighbor that might need some extra help, be the person to offer. This could include shoveling snow, stopping by with a delicious meal, gifting a wreath for their door, or lighting up the outside of their home for a festive touch. I know firsthand the power of these gestures. Our downstairs neighbor is one of our best friends and whenever I am cooking, there is always a plate ready for him too. It makes both of our days and that is exactly what friends are for. ❤

Donating:

Toy drives and food pantries are amazing ways to share your good fortune. Lots of local businesses in my neck of the woods are hosting drives for toys and food so ask around for a place that you can drop off to. This is also the time of year for grocery stores to run promotions like “spend X amount and get a free turkey or X Y and Z”. A local shelter could really benefit from that for their holiday meals. A gesture like this can truly do a world of good so give what you can so everyone in your community can have a special holiday too.

Blessing Boxes:

In the same breath, I have seen countless posts on talk of the town pages about people creating Blessing Boxes. It is essentially a Little Free Library but for pantry items. Food insecurity is such a major issue and creating a Blessing Box for your neighborhood would be fantastic. When an entire neighborhood gets together, there is nothing you can’t do to help so give what you can. Even if what you can give is not a lot, don’t downplay it. It still makes a huge difference!

Care Packages:

A resounding need at homeless shelters as the weather turns is cold weather clothing items like thick socks, gloves, hats, scarves, and jackets. Other items that are always needed include personal hygiene supplies, underwear, and diapers. If you look on their websites, you might also find wish lists for families that are living there. Creating care packages to drop off can help keep the neighbors in your community warm and comfortable. You can also make cash donations on websites too and find ways to volunteer your time. This is always a need and you might find yourself returning at least once a week.

Nursing Homes:

There are so many people who have no one to spend the holidays with, especially those in nursing homes. You could host a holiday card or gift drive to drop off or simply be there and spend time. I often see posts from local nursing homes requesting something like this on talk of the town pages. If you can’t find any posts, call around. This can create such a bright memory for all parties involved!

Everyone deserves a safe and happy holiday season. Do what you can to make it happen and remember, anything you do is something! ❤

Do you volunteer anywhere? How do you spread holiday cheer? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Dec22

Simple Ways To Spread Holiday Cheer

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Simple Ways To Spread Holiday Cheer

Howdy!! The countdown to Christmas is SO on and I am sure everyone is busy with their holiday prep. Me? I am officially DONE with shopping and wrapping so I am eagerly anticipating for the celebrations to hurry up and get here! It wouldn’t be the holiday season if everything didn’t feel a little bit crazy right now. However, it is always great to spread some happiness to friends, neighbors, and strangers. If you have some extra time to spare and holiday cheer to spread, let’s look at a few simple ways that you can make it happen:

Shovel Driveways/Sidewalks:

As of now in Akron, Ohio, we have had a snowy day or two and that has been it. If you live somewhere snowy, though, your neighbors will always appreciate some help with removal – especially if they are older. There is a reason why “heart attack snow” is a real thing! Take some extra time to clear off a driveway or two or make a path on some sidewalks if your neighborhood has them. This can really take a load off for those in your community physically and metaphorically and is an ideal way to spread some cheer if you are going to be experiencing a White Christmas.

Donate To A Shelter:

SO many grocery stores are running promotions such as “spend X amount and get a free turkey or ham”. If this applies to you and you don’t need the free item, donate it to a shelter instead where it can be used and enjoyed. This is exactly what my family did for Thanksgiving with the promo being ran at Giant Eagle. You can also take a look at the websites for shelters in your area. Chances are, they will have a list of items that they need in the moment like winter coats, winter accessories, feminine hygiene, and diapers. They also might have ways to sponsor a child so you can cross off some toys on their wish list. Whatever you choose to do will do a world of good.

Santa Mail:

I don’t know if this is a thing in your neck of the woods. But, in mine, I am constantly seeing posts from local nursing homes on social media asking for pen pals for their residents. If this is something that is doable where you are – go for it! Call a nursing home, get a batch of holiday cards, and send your well wishes. This has the potential to really brighten someone’s day. Better yet, you could form a lasting friendship with these correspondences and that is a gift in itself.

Sweets & Treats:

There is always sure to be an overflow of holiday sweets like cookies, pies, and candies. If you find yourself with WAY too much – you already know what to do. Make a delightful assortment on a tray and send it a neighbor’s way! If there’s a shortage of sweets, perhaps a neighbor with a bare yard would like a wreath on their door or some twinkling lights. Knock on the door and ask! Even if the answer is no, it’s such a thoughtful offer that will not go unnoticed.

Spreading holiday cheer doesn’t have to be a huge gesture. It can be small, meaningful things that make someone’s day and will show that you care!

How do you get into the holiday spirit? Do you volunteer in your community? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah