The holiday season, one of the best and most stressful times of year. Some years are better than others. We all have our spirit-filled years: we can't wait to whip out the Christmas tree, lights, and start Christmas songs as soon as Halloween ends. Other years, you feel more like the Grinch in how you're approaching the holiday season. Between my best friend and I, here are 5 things you can do if you're having a hard time getting into the Christmas spirit and be holly and jolly once more!

1. Christmas Songs- only the best: You've heard Jingle Bells about one too many times, and think it might just put you over the edge. However, channeling your inner Mariah Carey or Michael Bublé can be extremely helpful in boosting your merriness. Classics like Sleigh Ride, All I Want for Christmas is You, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, and more can help you out of your funk and get you festive feeling.

2. Festive Lights- There's nothing like lights strung across roof tops with plastic reindeer in the front yard. Seeing everyone else in the spirit helps get yourself in to the spirit too. Having them up before and after Christmas helps keep your spirits high and lit up through the entire season.

3. Hot Chocolate and Fuzzy Socks- Curling up by a fire place with a cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows with fuzzy, comfortable socks is one of the coziest things you can do during the dull winter months. With a snow day outside, your comfort inside becomes first priority.

4. Christmas PJ's- especially matching with family/friends: Accompanying with your fuzzy socks is your Christmas themed pajamas- even more festive when you have the matching pair with your best friend or close family member. Nothing says Christmas spirit like pants decorated with trees, reindeer, Santa Claus's, and more.

5. Christmas Movies- I've seen Elf almost too many times to count, but it doesn't diminish the value that it brings every time you watch it. Seeing the epic snowball fight in Central Park, Buddy the elf's love story with Jovi, and a save-the-day Christmas story puts you in the Christmas mood no matter what time of year it is. Of course there are countless other timeless films, so take your pick, cuddle up, and be prepared to get in the spirit.

These are just a handful of things that work for me, but remember each to their own! Take some time and enjoy setting up your tree with your family, friends, roommates, whomever- just enjoy the special time of year filled with light with all the people you love surrounding you.