Twinkling lights and toasty drinks. Sweaters and Santa Claus. These are just some of the things that come to mind when I think about Christmas. The “most wonderful time of the year” can begin as early as Thanksgiving. Before their turkey is even digested in their stomachs, people race to stores to begin their holiday shopping or pull down dusty boxes of decorations from the attic. Christmas season only comes around once a year, so it is important to make the most of it.

One of my favorite things about Christmas is holiday movies. Some of my favorite classics include It’s a Wonderful Life, White Christmas, and Miracle on 34th Street. Some more modern Christmas movies that never get old are Elf, A Christmas Story, Home Alone, and The Polar Express. So whether you’re in the mood for a sentimental movie a or goofy holiday flick, watching a Christmas movie is a great thing to do on those bitterly cold winter days where all you want to do is lounge around in the warm comfort of your house.

Another thing that people do during Christmas time is shop for friends and family. One of my favorite things to do is grab a peppermint mocha from Starbucks and hit all of my favorite stores in search of the perfect gift. Of course, if you’re like most high school students (me), you are probably kind of broke; however, keep in mind that the most thoughtful gifts don’t necessarily have to break the bank. My favorite place to shop for gifts is World Market on Soncy. World Market has something for everyone at fairly low prices. They even have a section by the checkout where you can find small gifts for under $10. If you’re willing to spend a little more money, Urban Outfitters has an unbelievable gift section online, and the best part is that you don’t even have to leave your couch to get your Christmas shopping done!

Finally, a really great thing to do during the holidays, is volunteer. During the Christmas season, it is easy to get wrapped up (no pun intended) in what you need to get done and the presents you want to get. It is important not to forget the people who don’t have as much as you do. Some local place you can volunteer are The High Plains Food Bank, Eveline Rivers Coat Drive, or the Salvation Army. If you want to give Christmas gifts to a child in need, Operation Christmas Child is an organization that allows you to buy gifts and send them to a child.

So whether you’re wrapping up gifts, watching your favorite holiday movie, or giving back, get into the holiday spirit and surround yourself with people you love because that’s what Christmas is really about.