Hello, December! It’s the last month of the year and it’s filled with surprises, and I couldn’t be more excited. I encourage you all to end 2014 on a high note and make it a point to do things that are meaningful and special to you this month. Here are my picks below – don’t forget to share yours, too.

Holiday Specials

Let’s face it, you probably aren’t going to put A Christmas Story or the original Frosty The Snowman on your queue unless you’re feeling particularly festive. With your home adorned with holiday lights and the streets covered in a dusting of snow (even if they are just the streets on your Pinterest), you’re feeling nostalgic for nights spent watching those old specials on TV. Rent or record them this month and have a movie night with your family or besties just because it’s December.

Lights and Decorations

Who doesn’t love wandering their neighborhood on the hunt for the biggest and best display of holiday décor? There are organized light shows in neighborhoods and zoos, as well as more subtle décor like twinkle-lit storefronts and welcoming wreaths on every door. Get bundled up and brave the cold for a moment to take it all in… It’s a truly wonderful feeling!

Holiday Giving

Bueno Market Calligraphy

With the hustle and bustle of daily life, we tend to forget about giving back. Since so much of the holidays revolve around spending time with family and loved ones, people slowly start to remember how good it feels to give to others. They buy a gift for their friend and it has a snowball effect – they think of who to give to next, whether it be through donations, volunteering or offering up your talents. Find more info on giving on the Charity Navigator website.

Sparkle, Sparkle, Sparkle!

Hey Pretty Thing

‘Tis the season to sparkle and shine. From glittered nails to shimmering NYE dresses, the capacity for sparkle this season knows no limits. When it comes to holiday parties and events, I say the bigger the better! Why not pull out all the stops and fit in as much shiny-sequin-happiness you can this time of year. You can do no wrong!

Creating New Traditions

If you’re into one of the above but haven’t done it yourself yet, why not start a new tradition? Be it donating a favorite childhood toy or popping in a VHS tape from family Christmases past (if you have a means to play it that is!), you can create the traditions that will contribute to a lifetime of memories.

Bring on December!

❤ Mish

Sara Dal Monte