After finishing my first semester at college, I've noticed that growing up can sometimes take away from the Christmas spirit. From studying for finals to going home and starting work again, Christmas either jumps up on us or is just one other thing we have to juggle. But I've decided I'm not going to let it be that way. I've been thinking a lot about the traditions that made Christmas so memorable when I was younger and how I can still carry that same festive spirit now. These are some of the little things that have made my memories of Christmas so special.

1. Tins Of Popcorn

Now I definitely don't want to know the nutrition facts, but when I was younger no Christmas movie was complete without one of these tins.

2. Christmas "Church Clothes"

Whether we were going to Christmas services, a nice dinner or party or just holiday pictures, we all had our fancy Christmas outfits.

3. Toy Nativity Scene

This was the set we were allowed to touch.

4. Off-Limits Nativity Scene

This was the scene we were not allowed to touch.

5. Trips To See Santa Claus

Seeing this at the mall was one of the highlights of the year... Even if we were forced to take pictures and wait in line.

6. "A Year Without A Santa Claus"

If you can't remember which Christmas special this is, since there are so many, this is the one with the iconic Heat Miser and his song. The Snow Miser is in there too but he just isn't as good. We enjoyed this tradition and the other Christmas specials during ABC Family's "25 Days of Christmas."

7. Reindeer Food

Making this at school, a Christmas party, or festival was one of the ways we really got in the spirit. Plus, many of us went through an obsessive animal loving phase and we wanted to reward Santa's reindeer with a tasty treat for all their hard work on Christmas Eve.

8. Christmas Pajamas

Some awkward pictures usually followed these -- especially anything from 2007-2009. That didn't seem to be a very photogenic time for a lot of us.

9. Cookies For Santa

The best part about this was seeing the empty plate on Christmas morning, proving Santa had been there and enjoyed his snack.