The holidays are here, and Christmas is inching closer every day. One of the most popular Christmas songs says it’s the most wonderful time of the year, but it’s usually incredibly stressful too. In between work, shopping online, or in a store, are you able to spend quality time with your family?
If you’re like me, you’re busy with life. Then again, who isn’t? I work full-time, I’m behind on my Christmas shopping, decorating for Christmas, and pretty much everything else for the holiday. But I’ve made more of an effort this year to do as many festive activities with my son as possible this season. Here are some ideas for your family (and mine):
Pictures with Santa or the Grinch
You’ve noticed by now that you can’t go more than a few days without seeing Santa while you’re out and about. Usually, it’s at the mall. But there are more and more small shops offering pictures with Santa. Not only is the jolly guy in a red suit making his rounds, but so is the Grinch. He’s been spotted at events around the Albuquerque/Rio Rancho area, and he’s willing to take pictures with kiddos. I took my son to meet him last weekend, and I’m still waiting on the professional photographer pictures to come my way.
River of Lights
I’ve lived in New Mexico since I was nine years old, but it wasn’t until last year that I finally went to the River of Lights at the BioPark. I’ve seen the ads for years, but I’d never gone. Last year, I decided that I would do something a little different with my son, and we actually had a good time. It was bitterly cold, but the many hot cocoa stands throughout the event were definitely a perk. This year marks the 25th anniversary too, and I’m planning on taking my son again, along with my parents, who’ve never been to the River of Lights either. It should be a good time for the whole family.
Lights of Enchantment
Are you still leery about large crowds since the pandemic? It’s okay if you are, because this event caters to those who either don’t want to be in a big crowd of germy people or walk around in the cold. This is a drive-thru light display right here in Albuquerque. If you want more details on this event, and to see the pricing, check out lightsofenchantment.com.
How about a lovely cup of tea to warm your bones this season? St. James Tearoom hosts different themed menus throughout the year, and they have a special one during the Christmas holiday. The theme is Winter’s Dream: Journey with The Nutcracker. It started on November 29th, and it will run until Sunday, January 1st, 2023. The menu has savory and sweet options, and all of it is the perfect size to go with a lovely cup of tea. Remember, St. James Tearoom only takes reservations, so make sure to schedule a tea party with your friends right away!
Movies at Flix Brewhouse
This was something I came across on Facebook. This month, the Flix Brewhouse theater is showing older Christmas movies with special showing dates and times. Movies include: “A National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” “White Christmas,” “Love Actually,” and others. I’ve already bought tickets to see “Which Christmas” next weekend with my mom. These are a nice way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of shopping, work, and everything else and just enjoy a movie in a dark theater. Here’s a plus for the adults – they not only serve food other than popcorn, but they also have and serve alcohol. I stress that you be safe and not drive drunk if you plan on drinking while at the movies.
Whatever you plan on doing this holiday season, make sure you’re enjoying it with your family and friends. Things are more hectic this time of year, but it doesn’t mean you have to be a Grinch yourself and not enjoy the happy events this month. I’ll be spending more quality time with my son this month, doing things together as a family. Sure, presents are cool, but being present with my son and making memories is far more important than a gift under a tree. The team with Albuquerque Plumbing Heating & Cooling will be making their own memories with their loved ones too. Make plans with your family and friends, and we look forward to seeing you out there.