Unpopular opinion: I hate Thanksgiving. To me, there is no point. My immediate family doesn't travel, and my extended family lives primarily in New Jersey. Basically, it's just me, my mom, and my dad, and all this food I don't like. Now, normally I love food, just not Thanksgiving food. Stuffing? Green bean casserole? Sweet potatoes? No, thanks. Turkey is OK, and pumpkin pie is amazing, but that's about all I eat. If there is ever a holiday devoted to steak or breakfast food, let me know. I'll be first in line to celebrate! But honestly, if it weren't for my parents, I doubt I'd celebrate Thanksgiving at all.
Thanksgiving may not be important to me, but Christmas certainly is! From November 1 to December 25 and beyond, it's all about presents, ornaments, and festive baked goods. (Yes, I'm one of those people.) Though this is the toughest point of the semester, keeping my days full of holiday cheer helps relieve the stress of academic obligations. Here are some ways to deck the halls in your dorm this holiday season!
Pump up the Christmas carols!
Around this time of year, my computer is always tuned to the Christmas Pandora station. (In fact, I'm listening to "Jingle Bells" as I type.) I find the sound of familiar Christmas songs very relaxing; it makes even the most difficult final project seem more bearable. Buddy the elf said it best:
Decorate your dorm room and door!
Sure, you won't be able to have a Christmas tree, but that doesn't mean you can't be festive! Go ahead and make your room and door look like a winter wonderland! (But only if your roommate is OK with it, of course.)
Bake anything and everything!
The best part of the holidays is the delicious food; make some as study snacks! If you don't have ready access to a kitchen, buy a (wickless) candle that smells like cinnamon. Not as good as being able to eat fresh-baked goodies, but at least your room will smell delectable!
Do a holiday cookie exchange!
The only thing better than making food for yourself is making food and sharing it with others. Cookie exchanges are very fun; plus, you might find some new recipes you really like.
Watch a Christmas movie marathon!
I don't mean the ones on the Hallmark Channel. I mean actual Christmas movies, like "The Santa Clause," "Home Alone," and, of course, "Elf!"
Go online shopping for Christmas presents!
Malls are super crowded this time of year, and who needs to interact with other people anyway? Better to find everything you need for friends and family on Amazon. While you're on there, look for gift ideas for yourself, too. As we get older, it's harder to come up with things we want or need. And sadly, grandma can't get you a higher self-esteem or GPA.
Give back!
Christmas isn't just about being grateful for what we have, or receiving awesome presents. It's also about remembering the people who aren't as well off as we are. Donating gifts to orphans or underprivileged kids, volunteering at an animal shelter, and giving away gently used clothes are all great ways to help those in need.
