www.FredericksburgParent.NET 11
4. READ
TOGETHER
Be like Clark Griswold
and his clan in
"Christmas Vacation"
and gather round to
read "The Night Before
Christmas." There are
also classic audio books
your family could lis-
ten to as you wrap
gifts or unwind after
work or school. Books
are the perfect way to
learn about different
holiday traditions, too.
Ask your local librarian
for recommendations of
books about Christmas,
Hanukkah or Kwanzaa or
celebrations such as Lucia
Day or Three Kings Day.
5. WATCH
HOLIDAY MOVIES.
Going to the movies may not
be feasible this year, but that
only inspires me to create a
cozy movie night in my own
living room. My family likes to
don holiday pajamas, snuggle
up in throw blankets
with snacks and hot
cocoa and laugh
away at "Elf" and
"A Christmas Story."
There are so many
great shows and
movies celebrating
the season that your
family will find one
that inspires festive
spirit in everyone!
6. CELEBRATE OUTSIDE
No matter the temperature, it's
always an excellent idea to head
outside. Go for a walk and listen
to the wind whistling through bare
trees or whipping around build-
ings. Notice the birds that winter in
your area. Decorate a tree outside,
whether in your backyard or on
your balcony. Get warm by a back-
yard bonfire or stargaze on a frosty
evening. Maybe the best outdoor activity of all is piling into the
car to see the holiday lights and outdoor decorations in your
neighborhood.
7. GO VIRTUAL
Whether it's Facebook Messenger,
Zoom or Skype, there are a myriad
of ways to extend season's greet-
ings to friends and families. So,
plan that video chat with Aunt
Susie or hang out online with your
best friend. Reaching out and
connecting, even in a virtual for-
mat, benefits everyone, especially
during the holidays.