December is here, and winter came along with it. To some, this just means cold weather and big jackets. But to the majority of people, Winter comes an excuse for 24/7 smiles, hot drinks, and overall coziness. And in my humble opinion there are few things in the world better than coming home after a long day in classes or at work, and being greeted with a wall of delicious smells and some Christmas music. This feeling is something I think everyone should have the opportunity to experience, which is what the rest of this article is dedicated to: Making your home, however small, as cheerful as possible with a couple quick tips.
Christmas Tree: If you’re all about that holiday spirit then I shouldn’t even have to remind you to pick up one of these. Real or fake, the tree somehow brings the whole room together all strung up with lights and ornaments. If I’m making suggestions, then go for the real thing. A fresh tree has this pine smell that will refresh you every single time you enter your home, and is very easy to maintain. Like most college students, you may not have a bunch of ornaments like your parents. Simply hanging some candy canes or DIY snowflakes can really make a big difference.
Simmer Smell Pot: This is an easy trick that will really fill your apartment with an amazing smell all the time. You can find numerous recipes, and can experiment with your own ingredients but at all you really need is an open stove top, a pan, water, cinnamon, and cloves. If you lightly simmer this mixture all day, your home will simply just smell amazing.
Christmas Music: WIthout this, the holiday just wouldn’t be the same. Depending on your childhood, you were probably raised listening to certain tunes around this time of year with classics like Jingle Bells and Frosty The Snowman. Personally, I always have a festive playlist ready to go but it has only just recently became socially acceptable to listen too. So pop some headphones in and sit back and relax or play pandora over the big speakers and sing along, just don’t forget this crucial step.
Change up your lighting: Between the colorful lights on your tree and ambient lighting from holiday scented candles, you can definitely afford to turn off some your normal lights! Not only will this help you save on that December electricity bill, but using the candlelight or even a fireplace, if you have it, will supply heat and provide more than enough nostalgia to keep your spirits up and make every day feel special.