Dust off those musty boughs of holly and round up the jingle bells because Christmas time is here. Finals are a bore, but Christmas is fun. So take all that unnecessary study time and use it to get your Whoville on because South Bend needs a good dose of cheer. As the two wise men of "Wedding Crashers" said, "Rule Number 76. No Excuses. Play like a champion."
The 5 Christmas Decorating Essentials:
1.Christmas Lights
Yes this might seem obvious, but never underestimate the power of a good set of lights. String them around your room, the hallways and, hey, maybe even the bathrooms. Energy month is over, so go all out. Many dorms are hosting floor-decorating contests this year, so it's time to bring your A-game. Because there's a wide variety to choose from, you'll need to decide which look you're going for. There are the always classy and elegant white lights, the fun and spirited multi-colored, flashing lights for the spunky bunch and big bulbs for the old-school traditionalists. If you're feeling particularly chipper, buy the whole lot. You'll be asking your neighbors, "How ‘bout them lights?"
2. A Christmas Tree
Another traditional staple of the holiday season is the Christmas tree. A real one is preferable, but probably unrealistic for both dorm life and the college budget. Don't worry, Target, Meijer and Walmart are here to help. They've got your mini glitter trees, twig and berry trees, fiber optic trees and even some pre-lit palms for those dreaming of Hawaii. However, nothing tops the bittersweet cheer of the Charlie Brown tree.
3. Fake Snow
South Bend's weather is not living up to its reputation this year. The most white that's been seen on campus is the premature graying of some stressed out science students' hair. Time is running out so we are calling in the backup. Nothing does the trick like a can of fake snow and a bag of some white fluff. Shake up the can and spray the edges of your window for a frosted look without the freezing temperatures and lump some cotton on the windowsills for a nice illusion. Sometimes you have to take matters into your own hands to make your dream of a white Christmas come true.
4. Stockings
Everybody knows Christmas is the season of giving, so give your friends the opportunity to shower you with gifts by hanging a stocking outside your door. A personalized one is preferable to avoid receiving awkward gifts clearly intended for your roommate. If your dorm does an anonymous gift exchange, a stocking is the perfect tool to make it easy for an efficient and sneaky drop-off and also gives you that rush of anticipation every time you walk by the door, waiting to see if there's a prize inside. Give yourself a taste of the joy you'll feel on Christmas morning and watch the presents line up.
5. Mistletoe
Mistletoe is like the cherry on top of your already decked out Christmas room sundae. It provides the perfect chance to make a move on that cutie you've been eying all night or to watch two awkward randos stutter as they discover their position under the greenery. Hang a sprig from the ceiling and watch the magic unfold in true holiday fashion.
Contact Adriana Pratt at apratt@nd.edu
