Make Cookies!
It is cold outside and warm inside. How about making some fresh Holiday cookies that everyone is sure to eat on, before or after the holidays? Here is a basic recipe for Holiday cookies that you can frost and decorate to your hearts’ content (https://www.yummly.com/recipe/Grandma_s-Holiday-Prize-Cookies-1944122?prm-v1). Show off your cookie creativity. If you make too many, share your sweet treats with neighbors, colleagues, and friends.
Go See a New Release Movie
Jumanji: The Next Level starring Dwayne Johnson, Karen Gillan, Kevin Hart, and Jack Black is in theaters right now along with Frozen 2. Star Wars The Rise of Skywalker has an opening night fan event at Tinseltown on December 19th. Find out more here: https://www.cinemark.com/movies/star-wars-the-rise-of-skywalker-opening-night-fan-event?rclick=0&showDate=2019-12-14. On December 20th, the Jellicles come to town. The stars of the new CATS movie are too numerous to list. This feature is based on the Broadway musical. To learn more, check the trailer out: https://www.cinemark.com/movies/cats?rclick=0&showDate=2019-12-14.
Make Your Own Gifts
You might be amazed at how many fun gifts you can make from what you have around the house. Whether it is an ornament (http://www.architectureartdesigns.com/30-cute-recycled-diy-christmas-crafts/ ) for the tree, a bird feeder from an old teacup (https://www.practicallyfunctional.com/how-to-make-a-teacup-bird-feeder/) and saucer (https://www.morenascorner.com/2013/07/diy-tea-pot-bird-bath.html), or a beautiful purse from a recycled book (check out Etsy to find quite an assortment).
Play Games
You can do this in the comfort of your own home, but how many games do you really have and what if you are bored with them? Check out Fun Again Games (https://funagain.com/) in Ashland where you can go to try new board games and meet new people while you are there. If you want to see a list of all the games they have, jump online and check out their inventory. They also see games to purchase, take home and play.
Take the Four Gift Christmas Challenge
Give them something they want; something they need; something to wear; something to read. Read a bit more about this challenge that asks all of us to find a simpler, less stressful way to celebrate the holidays that is sustainable (http://moneysavingsisters.com/4-gift-christmas-challenge-want-need-wear-read/). For some great book ideas, check out Barnes & Noble in Medford (https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/2771). They even have storytime and author events. Also, make sure to include independent authors (https://www.independentauthornetwork.com/) in your search for new books to purchase.