5 Festive Ideas to Get You in the Spirit of the Holidays

If you've visited any of the larger department stores recently, you may have already noticed the presence of the holidays starting to make their appearance. And now that Halloween is over and we're officially into the month of November, you can bet that Christmas is going to explode in the stores and all over your social media newsfeed over the next couple of weeks. You may have even noticed some of your friends already sharing holiday related GIFs expressing their excitement (or lack thereof) for the upcoming holidays. Now Isla Del Sol knows that not everyone is as ready to start putting up decorations and singing Christmas carols as the retail industry would like us to be. But for those who are, we've got 5 festive ideas to get you in the holiday spirit!

1. Bake Cookies

The holidays just wouldn’t be the same without all that holiday baking. Whether your go-to is chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin or gingerbread, baking cookies in fun holiday shapes and flavors will surely put you in the Christmas spirit. PLUS, there's not many people who can pass up a scrumptious cookie, so sharing your delicious holiday cookies with others may get them to open up to the spirit of the holidays too!

2. Get Family Photos

Now is the perfect time to start thinking about your holiday cards, especially if your cards usually consist of a family photo! So call up your favorite photographer, pick out a cute theme or color for the family to dress in, and strike a pose for this year's Christmas card! Since having professional pictures usually means there will be a lag in turnaround time, it's best to get these done sooner rather than later to ensure you've got them back in time to send them out. 

3. Shop for Gifts

The earlier you start on your Christmas shopping, the less stressed you'll feel about the holidays, and the more money you're likely to save! If you're planning to go Black Friday shopping, start looking for ideas online now and making a list so you're ready. The Black Friday ads will be rolling out soon enough, so you can even come up with a plan of attack and enlist your family to shop for specific items you can check everything off your list! 

4. See a Holiday Performance

Whether you splurge on a single show or make it an annual tradition, nothing puts you in high spirits quite like a holiday performance. If you are interested in the theater, check out a production of "A Christmas Carol." If you like fine arts, try "The Nutcracker" ballet. And if you are a music junkie or light show enthusiast, the "Trans-Siberian Orchestra" is a must-see (hint: they'll be in Kansas City this year!). 

5. Volunteer

The holiday season is often seen as a holiday about getting, but it is also about giving. Volunteer at a local shelter or food pantry to help people in need, volunteer to be a bell ringer, or get involved with one of the local organization who hosts holiday fundraisers. Not only will it will make you more appreciative for the things that you have, but it will be more fulfilling than any item on your Christmas list. Getting the kids involved in volunteer work at a young age helps to build character and appreciation as well, so it's a great family activity!

There you have it - 5 festive ideas to help get you and your loved ones in the spirit of the holidays! Who knows? In your excitement to celebrate NOW, you may even convince those who insist on waiting until AFTER the turkey's big day to get a little excited! And just know that you're not alone in your "premature" excitement. The holiday festivities will be kicking off all over the place soon enough! If you're moving to the Lake of the Ozarks, be sure to check out all the local holiday events at www.FunLake.com, and don't forget to consider checking out the only private island condo complex at the Lake of the Ozarks for your next home. Our island has the best panoramic views for enjoying the Lake during any season!

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