1. SOMETHING THAT SMELLS GOOD

Who says only women get to pamper themselves with nice-smelling things? A cologne, body wash, or lotion is always a great option for both your significant other and you! Jonathan works in a construction supply company, so he sweats a lot as he works throughout the day. It's nice when he can smell fresh and clean after a hard day's work!

"If you're going out for dinner or a movie, you want to smell good for your S.O. and colognes smell good."

2. VIDEO GAMES/ACCESSORIES

One thing almost every man has in common is their love of video games. Jonathan is no different. He loves trying new games and having great accessories to play them with. If your man isn't into video games, you could get them a board or card game you can play together! You can also get a system subscription!

"Video games are fun and a great stress reliever. Having a new game or accessory would make playing more enjoyable."

3. TOOLS AND APPLIANCES

For the handyman in your life, consider getting them the tool set they've been eyeing. I've been considering that Jonathan is probably due for a toolbox upgrade soon! Tools are useful, and you can find nearly everything from screwdriver sets to larger home appliances.

"Getting tools makes me feel like I can do more and fix things myself. Being able to do that with your own tools makes me feel better than having to call someone (unless we really have to)."

4. SOMETHING THAT FEEDS A PASSION

Jonathan is artistic, even though he always downplays his talents. He loves to draw, so one year I purchased him a sketchbook and some nice pencils. You know your man better than you think. Think about what makes him glow and get him something that feeds his passion.

"These gifts allow you to express yourself. If you like to draw, you can draw things you like or something that reminds you of a good memory from the past. If your S.O. gets you a gift that feeds your passion, it shows they're listening and they know what makes you happy."

5. A BEARD CARE KIT

Lastly, a beard care kit is a great way to give your partner that extra pampering they deserve. Jonathan received a beard car kit from an Influenster campaign I did a while ago, and he loved it. My mom also got him a kit for Christmas, which he uses every day! If your partner doesn't have a beard, skin care is also a great option. There are a lot of skincare brands that cater to different skin types and I'm sure you can find one marketed to men.

"If you're into making yourself look and feel good for your S.O., the beard care kit is a step in the right direction. You can pamper yourself, but it also makes you look and feel better."

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1. Get a Handle on Your Stress

According to Stress.org, stress can raise your blood pressure, which can increase the probability of having a heart attack or stroke.   I learned last year that I had high blood pressure, a condition which runs in my family.

2. Make Smaller Goals and Set Timeframes

As mentioned, we all tend to make big goals each year.   “I’m going to lose 50 pounds,” or “I’m going to read 40 books,” are good examples of these big goals.

​3. Cut Out Toxic and Negative People

4. Focus on You

As a millennial, I can’t tell you how often I hear how entitled and self-serving my generation is. ​However, nearly every millennial I know is more focused on their job, their family, or an organization they are a part of.

5. Keep Learning

​One thing I have loved doing this year is increasing my knowledge. However, as many of us know, spending money on classes isn’t always an option.   I’ve been taking advantage of HubSpot’s free certification courses. I’m currently working to finish up my Digital Marketing certificate.

6. Spend Time with Family and Friends

7. Drink More Water

I started a new medication last year, and it really instilled in me the value of hydration. The medication is dehydrating. This had me in pain nearly every day with horrible headaches and migraines. ​ I am starting to view water like oil in a car.

8. Put Energy into Things/People That Pour Back Into You

This goes back to investing time into yourself and valuing your time. We often tend to put a ton of energy into organizations and people who simply do now pour back into us.   Your definition of “pour back” may be different than mine.

9. Set Boundaries

Boundaries are becoming more widely accepted in a range of circles nowadays, but it used to be a “naughty” word.   These allow you to continue to hold relationships with people, organizations, and workplaces while maintaining a healthy relationship.   For example, you may want to set boundaries on your work-life balance with a coworker or employer. You might also want to set topical boundaries for family conversation to avoid fighting within your family.

10. Don't Get Discouraged

Conclusion

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​GET A PLANNER

My first piece of advice is to invest in a nice planner for the year. Not only should your planner have a calendar, but it is also helpful to have breakout pages for each week or day. This will help you stay organized because you can easily look in your planner and see what you have coming up. It is also useful for goal setting, which we can talk about later. I purchased this planner from Target, along with some erasable pens.

SET SOME GOALS

Use the margins of your calendar to set goals for each month or week. These goals should be simple and measurable. They could be smaller parts to your bigger 2022 goal.  I set goals for January like "make sure to cook x amount of times a week," to help me get back on track with healthier eating. You can also set goals for follower counts if you're a blogger or YouTuber, and this can help you take action to help you meet those goals.

DON'T SAVE CHORES FOR THE WEEKEND

When you're a busy person, it is easy to say "I'll do that this weekend."  But the weekend is one of the only moments within a week that we actually have time to relax and take a breath.

PUT YOUR THINGS AWAY RIGHT AWAY

I am personally working on this because it is so easy to live out of a suitcase, but it isn't necessarily healthy or organized. ​I just returned from my hometown and I made the extra effort to wash all of my clothes before I left.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO STAY ORGANIZED?

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My first goal was to get stronger mentally, physically and spiritually. I definitely improved my mental health some by seeking help, but mental health is a constant battle, especially if you suffer from anxiety and depression. I have improved a lot of my health stats, which is great and exciting! I'm hoping to continue this progress in 2022.

2022 GOALS

My first goal is to be consistent with my content on my blog and on the YouTube channel. I know that we aren't perfect and I'm sure I'll drop the ball at some point, but I want to make that less common. Blogmas was a great exercise to get back into consistent writing and videography. I'm really looking forward to reigniting my passion for making content outside of my 8 to 5 job.

I want to be more organized by making sure I write down my meetings, work stuff and personal plans. I also want to make more of an effort to keep our home clean. I don't want to be worried if someone wants to come over or pop by. There are a lot of things that I always try to keep as clean as possible, like the litter box, dog bed/area and the dishes and laundry. But sometimes things pile up and I want to make that happen less often.

The last thing I want to commit to is achieving smaller goals throughout the year. Instead of being married to the idea of achieving large and harder-to-measure goals, I would like to make monthly goals and try to achieve them. That way I can have smaller goals that feed into my larger ones and can help me achieve my overal goals.

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As soon as we walked down a path lit by lanterns, we were greeted by a giant animatronic peacock that fluffed out his feathers. It was so pretty, and it really drew the crowd, so it was tough to get a good picture. We ended up circling back at the end of the night to get a photo of my mom with it. At that point, most of the crowd had moved on to other things in the Booth Amphitheater, where the event was being held.

We were already seeing a ton of traditional Chinese imagery, including dragons, cherry blossoms, and more. At this point, I had realized it was much colder than I anticipated. Luckily, they had a concession stand selling various snacks, some Chinese-inspired, as well as hot drinks. We all grabbed a hot chocolate and sat to watch some of the entertainment happening on the main stage. They had a quick change artist performing.

I think my favorite light display were these two swan lovebirds. I wished that Jonathan was able to make it, because it would have made such a cute picture, but I made it work with my little heart arms. This was a popular stop for couples, for sure. But it was far from the grandest piece they had on display. After walking around a bit, we viewed several light installations that represented the Chinese birth year animals. I am a rooster, my brother is a sheep, and my mom is a dog. I remember seeing these birth years listed on a placemat at one of our favorite Japanese restaurants. Weird, I know. But I only really like Panda Express, and that's the extent of Chinese food I like.

At the end of it all, we snapped this family picture before heading home. It was a bit of a drive from Mooresville, N.C., but it was well worth it to see some unique, new lights. We tend to go to Tanglewood a lot, but after a while, you are used to seeing the same things. This was such a fun way to spend the evening, and I'd recommend it to anyone for a fun evening trip in North Carolina.  We really enjoyed it, and it was a great way to get out of the house and spend some time together to get us in the Christmas spirit.

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THE CHRISTMAS BAG

Photo from Walmart.com

To start off, get yourself a festive box or bag. You can always go for a disposable one, but I really think these canvas printed bags are so cute. There is also a space to write the name on the outside. You could do little bags for each child/family member, or you could address it to the family, i.e. "The Allison Family." There are several Etsy listings for personalized ones, but this will be great if you're in a pinch and trying to find something cute both quickly and affordably.

SMALL ACTIVITIES

Next, add in some little activities to do. This could be anything from a sing emoji game like the one I've linked, or it could be coloring pages. This should be a pretty no-mess activity that kids or the family members can do in their down time during the evening.  Other ideas include word searches, Christmas trivia, sudoku, Where's Waldo, and more.  You can find little activities like this online, even, for free as a printable.

Photo from Walmart.com

BIG/MESSY FAMILY ACTIVITY

Photo from Walmart.com

Now, you'll need to get a bigger activity to do with your family. I immediately thought of Gingerbread Houses, but you could also bake and decorate your own cookies, do a painting, or even make some new ornaments for the tree. You could also make this competitive and do parents vs. kids or girls vs. boys. Either way, this will be a fun activity for all ages, and definitely something you should add to your Christmas Eve Box or Bag.

FIDGET TOYS

I know many people believe that fidget toys are only for kids, but I do also believe that some adults can benefit from using fidget toys in certain aspects of their life. Fidgets can reduce stress and improve focus, and they can be a great way to keep the kids busy to wrap up your present wrapping or while you're waiting for your Christmas Eve meal to cook. You can also add any left over fidgets to the Christmas stockings for them to enjoy later.

Photo from Walmart.com

A CHRISTMAS MOVIE

Nothing sets a magical mood for Christmas Day more than watching some of your favorite Christmas movies together on Christmas Eve. Some of my favorites are: How the Grinch Stole Christmas White Christmas Jingle All the Way Christmas With the Kranks The Home Alone Series Noelle Deck the Halls Those are all great movies that are family friendly and enjoyable for the entire family. Cuddle up and get ready to watch these on the big screen.

Photo from Walmart.com

A HOT DRINK

Photo from Walmart.com

The holidays aren't the holidays without a nice hot chocolate or apple cider. I personally love the Swiss Miss hot cocoa mix because you can choose how chocolatey you want to have your cocoa.  Top the hot chocolate with some marshmallows, and you've got a festive drink right there. If you're into peppermint hot chocolate, you can add in some peppermint sticks. If you're an apple cider fan, just warm up some water and mix some together. Either way, you'll have a warm drink that will get you excited for the next morning.

JAMMIES

Next, and one of my favorite family traditions, is pajamas, preferably matching ones. Ever since I can remember, my family has done matching pajamas on Christmas Eve. We've DIYed our Christmas jammies, or just bought matching ones. Either way, there are a ton of sets like the one I have linked to the right. They all match, and you can even find some sets that include the furry members of your family!

Photo from Walmart.com

A SWEET TO SHARE

Photo of Walmart.com

Obviously this would depend on the age of your children or the people in your family. It is nice to share a little sweet snack with one another before ringing in Christmas morning. I like this Hershey's Pot of Gold, because I think you can share it pretty easily.  So, this is naturally a good choice for sharable sweets on Christmas Eve. You can also do trail mix, caramel popcorn, or other chocolates and sweets.

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1. WRITE A THOUGHTFUL NOTE

You likely have some paper and a pen laying around your house. You'd be surprised at how excited a loved one would be to get a heartfelt letter or note from you. Men, this is a great thing to give to your significant other, as it shows them just how much you love them. Parents would also love to receive something like this from their kids.

2. HELP CLEAN/SPRUCE UP

If you live in a home, you should already be doing this. But, if you're visiting family or friends and they need help cleaning up their home, moving, or sorting through items to trash or donate, this is an awesome gift. Sometimes, just having extra hands is a great gift. Lend a hand this holiday and help your friends and family keep their spaces nice and clean.

3. DONATE YOUR SKILLS

If you're skilled in various areas, donate your time for free to your friends or family. Make sure they're aware this is a gift and that you won't be able to give your services away for free all the time, but you're willing to do a project for them on the house. You could use your skills in painting, drawing, graphic design, photography and much more.

4. MAKE A SPECIAL SONG

Songs are so special, and a special song you make up for someone can stick with them all their life. My Nana used to sing a song with my name in it that she made up (I think). And I still think about it a lot or hum it in my head! Songs can be special, and performing the song can leave a lasting memory.

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1. HANGIN' WITH MY GNOMIES

When I saw this, I immediately thought of On My Block. If you haven't watched that show on Netflix, you have to!  In the show, there are gnomes that represent different people who were in the Santos (you'll get the reference when you watch it), but I just thought this was so cute, even if you've never seen the show before. Hanging with my Gnomies Christmas Sweatshirt.

2. GALACTIC SANTA

This was such a weird sweatshirt, but something about it screamed UGLY and Christmas!  Santa is shooting through the stars on a non-traditional Christmas "reindeer" to deliver presents to all the children of the world. What more can you ask for in an ugly sweatshirt? Tipsy Elves Men's Modern Sweatshirt.

3. BABY JESUS IN A BABY CARRIER

Before you come at me, no I don't think Baby Jesus is ugly! I thought this was a very unique and interesting Christmas sweater. However, it does give me "Hangover" vibes, but I think it is really funny. This might be a lot of fun for a church Christmas party, or something. I think some people would get a kick out of it. Tipsy Elves Men's Sweet Baby Jesus Ugly Christmas Sweater.

4. THE "ELF" - OBSESSED

I hate to say it, but I am not a huge fan of this movie. However, I know there are a lot of people who adore it. Buddy the Elf's excitement for Christmas leaves a lot of people excited for their own holiday adventures.  So when I saw this quote on this sweater, I knew this one had to make the list. Ugly Christmas Sweater Funny Elf.

5. CRAZY CAT HAIR

This sweater is so ugly, I nearly spat out my drink when I saw it. It looks 3D, which is really cool, but this cat print is just ridiculous. They have other prints such as a cat dressed like the Mona Lisa, a bunch of cats, a pug, and some Grinch designs. If you're looking for something that will put you over the top in your ugly Christmas sweater competition, it's the Couple Cute 3D Santa Print Ugly Christmas Kangaroo Pocket Sweatshirt/Hoodie.

6. TWERKIN' SANTA

I really don't know why, but when I saw this, I knew it had to be on the list. It is so ridiculous! Maybe it is because I grew up when twerking was like the biggest thing you could do at a school dance. I don't know.  Anyway, if you want a twerkin' Santa on your sweater this Christmas, go check out the Tipsy Elves Men's Twerk Shop Sweater.

7. THE NON-SWEATER

Some of us are hot natured, or we live in a place where sweaters aren't really a good idea because it's still hot in December. So, I really liked this t-shirt. I may even invest in it for myself since I have no interest in wearing a sweater for long periods of time. If you're like me and you think this one is cool, you can find the This is My It's Too Hot for Christmas Sweater Shirt on Amazon.

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1. TANGLEWOOD FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS | CLEMMONS, N.C.

Photo from Forsyth Co. Website

My family has had a long tradition of going to Tanglewood Park. This is perfect for little children and groups, and they add something new every single year. Family cars are $20 cash or $23 on card, and you can also bring commercial vans and busses. You can also visit the gift village for handmade gifts, s'mores, and a visit with Santa. For more information, click here.

2. CHINESE LANTERN FESTIVAL | CARY, N.C.

This year, my family and I checked out the Chinese Lantern Festival in Cary, N.C. Although traditional American Christmas lights are on display, this is a phenomenal display of culture.  The lights are beautiful, and you can even stop and get some refreshments like hot chocolate, spring rolls, gingerbread and whipped cream, and more. Tickets are $25 each. Really loved this experience, and would recommend everyone to try it out. Find more information on the lantern festival here.

Photo by Gabrielle Allison

3. CHRISTMAS TOWN USA | MCADENVILLE, N.C.

Photo by Steve Rankin | McAdenville-ChristmasTown.com

Christmas time is huge in Christmas Town, USA. McAdenville is a small town in North Carolina that collectively loves Christmas. This is a 1.3 mile route that includes thousands of lights and light displays and a lively Main Street. If you can go during the week, that would be best, as there is always a lot of traffic over the weekend. It is free to drive through, and dogs are welcome if you want to walk! Check out more information on McAdenville here.

4. CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK | FAYETTEVILLE, N.C.

As a resident of Fayetteville who has enjoyed the Christmas in the Park in the past, I recommend doing this with kids or as a cute little holiday date night. When we went through, we walked through. However, due to COVID-19, this is now a drive-thru event. Admission is free and this show is a site to see over the holiday season. Such beautiful lights! Check out more information on Christmas in the Park here.

Photo from Parks and Recreation of Fayetteville, N.C.

5. FIELDSTREAM FARM | RALEIGH, N.C.

Photo from FieldstreamFarm.com

This is the perfect little Christmas trip for youth groups or organizations. Vehicles of 1 to 8 passengers pay $20, and the fee goes up with more. This is a drive-thru Christmas light experience with more than a million lights on display through Dec. 31. Check it out here.

6. FOREST CITY | ASHEVILLE, N.C.

From Nov. 25 to Jan. 1, you can enjoy a walk down Main Street in Forest City to see lights galore. This is a small, cute part of town that decorates the live oak trees and square. The tradition of decorating these trees goes all the way back to 1930. On the weekends, you can enjoy carriage rides and hot chocolate. Find more information on this light experience here.

Photo from RomanticAsheville.com

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1. CLASSIC

First and foremost, you can't ever knock the classic Christmas look. This includes red, white, and gold (and sometimes silver) and can also include things like white Christmas lights, bows, pine cones, and all things "natural." These are always perfect for photo opportunities on Christmas day, and it helps to really bring home the feeling of the holidays in the days leading up to Christmas.

2. MINIMALIST

There is something about the minimalist look that I really like, though I don't think I could really pull it off. This is perfect for people who like the nice, polished look to match their home's aesthetic.  For this one, you could do a white tree or a green tree sprayed with the fake snow stuff! If you want to add lights, make them white. This type of decor is really light, and so you can skip the multitude of ornaments and knick knacks on the shelves.  If you do this, I'm a little jealous because you probably have your house and your life together.

3. BLUE AND WHITE THEME

While many people are a fan of the classic red and green colors of Christmas, others are more in favor of blue, white, and silver. A white/blue tree would be ideal for this, and using only blue, silver, or white ornaments, lights, and other decorations.  I think this looks really nice and is super cute over the holidays. I think this one is unique, as not many people do this one.

​4. MULTICOLORED AND FUN

Finally, we've made it to my type of Christmas decor. Everything about my decor screams colorful and fun! This decor theme features a ton of mismatched knick knacks on the mantle and a lot of unique and special ornaments. Our tree looks like this because we try to get a new ornament each year that kind of relays something special that happened in our life that year. I carried that tradition over to my tree with my husband, though we've yet to add new ones this year!

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