HOLIDAY BUCKET LIST IDEAS FOR WINTER
If you’re looking for some ideas for a day date, exciting travels to see holiday lights, or a small road trip somewhere, I’ve got an awesome list that is realistic to visit, enjoy and cheers to the holiday season! I hope you can make it to at least one of these if you’re in the Florida area or willing to travel! Tis’ the season to be jolly…and magic!
NEW YORK CITY
During the holidays, New York City is especially magnificent. On the first Wednesday after Thanksgiving, the traditional tree lighting ceremony at Rockefeller Center heralds the arrival of the holiday season. Featuring a 79-foot Norway Spruce adorned with tens of thousands of lights, the ceremony is on December 1 and the tree will remain lit through the first week of 2022. A holiday bucket list idea, for sure.
ST. AUGUSTINE
Like NYC, St. Augustine is a fabulous destination year-round. But this time of year, the town delivers pure holiday magic. In fact, its annual Nights of Lights experience (11/20 – 01/31/22) has been designated as one of the 10 Best Holiday Lighting Displays in the World by Nat Geo. Do your holiday shopping, enjoy a fantastic meal, and stroll the beautifully lit, charming streets of the oldest city in the US.
IT’S NOW SNOWING IN CELEBRATION
What? It doesn’t even snow in the Florida town called Christmas! But it sure does in the Town of Celebration. Now Snowing in Celebration is a month-long winter wonderland delight. There’s faux snow from November 27th through December 31.
PUT UP HOLIDAY DECORATIONS NOW
Some say it’s too early but we could all use a bit of extra light at the end of this tunnel. Switch on your favorite Christmas music (we suggest Snowfall: The Tony Bennett Christmas Album), concoct a festive beverage, and deck the halls until your heart’s content. If you have little elves, make it a Christmas music dance party.
LETTER TO SANTA
Originally from Rovaniemi, Finland, Santa and Mrs. Claus moved 3,000 miles upward to the North Pole because they needed more workspace for their toils. Plus, rents are cheaper in the Pole. Write your letters to Santa (he loves hearing from adults, too) and send them to 123 Elf Road, North Pole, 88888 before December 15. Regular postage applies.
LET THE KIDS DECORATE THEIR ROOMS
Arm them with a small tree or wreath, twinkling lights, a stocking, homemade ornaments, and snowflakes made of cardboard. They can choose their favorite colors and let their imaginations run wild. And they’ll be proud of their accomplishment.
RECIPE: DANISH HOT CHOCOLATE
Makes 4 cups
3 oz. dark or bittersweet chocolate
2 cups whole milk
1 tbsp. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
½ cup heavy cream
Heat the milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream in a small pot. Remove from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Add the chopped chocolate and whisk until frothy. Pour. Enjoy. If you prefer a more adult version, try it the Icelandic way: Add a shot of dark spiced rum. You’re welcome.
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS
Over a velvety mug of your delicious homemade Danish hot chocolate, make a list of your resolutions for 2022. Jot down personal goals and expectations, keeping them short and realistic.
RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS
Donate food or volunteer to serve meals at your local food kitchens. Foster a loving, lonely animal, or donate pet supplies to your local pet shelter. Give blood. Show appreciation to a friend or colleague. Volunteer to read holiday stories at your local library or nursing home. Help a busy friend wrap gifts or bake.
