This December, Marriotts Ridge Mustangs were filled with cheer as they embarked on festive shopping sprees for the holiday season. With lists in hand, students scoured stores for the perfect gifts for loved ones, decorations to deck their halls, delicious foods to indulge in and exciting activities to make their Christmas truly memorable.
“My family is crazy about Christmas shopping. We usually get all of our shopping done on Black Friday because of all of the sales,” sophomore Kelsey Manlove explained.
The allure of Christmas shopping begins well before December. Some start plotting gift ideas as soon as Halloween ends while others eagerly await the festive songs signaling the official start of the season. It’s not just about the act of shopping for Christmas, but the atmosphere that surrounds it. There’s an unspoken joy in joining the bustling crowds, marveling at the elaborate decorations and browsing through stores for hours.
“It feels so good to be able to buy things for the people I care about. The gift of giving is giving,” senior Jacob Riggs described.
What makes this season so special is the art of giving. The joyous anticipation of seeing the smiles on our loved ones’ faces when they unwrap a carefully chosen gift is indescribable. It’s not about the price tag but the thoughtfulness behind each present. Pride is taken in finding something that truly means something to the recipient, showcasing how much they’re cherished. Alongside gift giving, decorating for the holiday season is a big deal.
“My parents go all out for Christmas decorating. There isn’t an inch of our house that isn’t covered with decorations from Walmart or Target,” junior Priya Antes expressed.
The process of decorating homes with sparkling lights, glittery ornaments and fragrant wreaths is an experience that brings families together. Whether it’s stringing lights along rooftops or decorating the Christmas tree with cherished ornaments collected over the years, these moments become treasured memories that eagerly looked forward to each year.
“My family and I go to Five Below and just grab a bunch of little stuff for each person. It’s honestly so exciting to surprise my parents and siblings with presents,” sophomore Nick Sutula said.
Christmas shopping isn’t just a mere task on a checklist; it’s a tradition filled with love, laughter and a sense of togetherness. As Mustangs, we embrace this season not just for the gifts we give and receive, but for the shared moments, the heartfelt connections, and the holiday spirit that surrounds us.