Ah, "The Most Wonderful Time of The Year." The time for food, friends, red Starbucks cups, and awkward family encounters. The time for the realization that your family has possibly the worst traditions, or simply that your family just doesn't have the holiday spirit anymore. So what can you do? How can you make the holidays enjoyable again? I think I have a few ideas that might work.

1. Take Over The Holidays.

As an adult, I have had the realization that I can start hosting holiday get-togethers at my apartment, or I can find my own ways to celebrate. I can have my own tree now, and decorate if I want. I can make these holidays special for myself, and not have to worry if anyone else is trying to be a Scrooge. If you have the chance, do something in your own way this holiday season, make it feel a little more fun for yourself, no matter what others are saying. Start your own new traditions if you want, invite new people who wouldn't normally be invited. Switch things up and make them your own.

2. Friendsgiving!

Possibly my favorite holiday trend. Thanksgiving can get kind of stuffy...pun intended...so why not give thanks with people you actually are thankful for? Cook some good food, get your friends together, and just enjoy each other's presence. It can be a refreshing alternative to the awkward dinner with Aunt Judy who drinks a little too much wine and ends up crying over the green beans unless, of course, that's a game you play....which brings me to my next way to bring joy to your holiday season.

3. Play Games.

In-Law Bingo, Family Free for All, or whatever you wanna call it, it's a great way for the "youngsters" to survive the holidays. Make some rules, then it's game on. For example, every time your family does something on a list of typical behaviors, you have to be the first person to say a predetermined word. The word can change daily, to keep things interesting. Bonus points if you get amazingly bad selfies with your grandparents while they are on some politically-fueled rant.

4. Handmade Holidays.

This is for those who may not have a bunch of money saved up for Christmas or whatever holiday you celebrate. Not having money can make the holidays seem dreary and lower spirits. Well, a cheap and thoughtful way to make your loved ones smile this season is to make the gifts you give. If you have the time, it can actually be an incredibly thoughtful way to take on gift giving. Mug sets, small paintings, handmade jewelry or key chains, knitted or crocheted items, etc. All of these make for awesome gifts that your family and friends are sure to remember, especially if they are personalized for each person. Don't let your budget be the reason your season is ruined. Just get crafty and I'm sure things will begin to look up.

5. New Foods.

Why eat all the same boring (albeit tasty) food each year? Why not switch things up? Try new recipes, new ways of cooking the foods, or even new cuisines altogether. Each year you can try foods from different countries, or if you have friends coming over, have them bring foods they grew up eating. You're sure to learn new things, and also broaden your culinary horizons at the same time!

I hope your holidays are lovely and full of fun new ideas! Be safe, and smart, but most of all, enjoy yourself! Much love this Holiday season!