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Riley Heruska
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DECEMBER 12

BURGLARY OF BUILDING

An officer was dispatched to the 3400 block of Mockingbird Lane in response to the theft of a bicycle from a detached garage. The victim stated that the theft occurred between 7:45 PM and 7:55 PM. 


DECEMBER 13

DAMAGE TO TOWN PROPERTY

At approximately 10:44 AM, an officer was dispatched to the 4500 block of Fairway near the intersection with Roland Avenue to assist a driver of a semi-truck that had gotten stuck making the turn. The semi-truck had caused damage to the surrounding landscaping and irrigation system, resulting in water leakage. 


DECEMBER 14 

THEFT OF PROPERTY 

An officer was dispatched to the HPDPS Lobby where a victim stated that someone had removed a hoverboard from her front porch without permission between 8:00 AM and 6:30 PM. 


DECEMBER 15

BURGLARY OF BUILDING 

At approximately 3:00 PM, an officer responded to a walk-in call for a burglary of a building. The reporting person is a construction manager for a home site in the 3700 block of Euclid, and he stated that an unknown person entered the site and cut the padlocks on a job box. They took thousands of dollars worth of plumbing supplies and electrical wiring spools. The thief also broke into the master bedroom and took an expensive tile saw. 

ROBBERY 

An officer was dispatched to the 4800 block of Lemmon Avenue at approximately 6:08 PM in response to a reported robbery. The suspect was said to have fled the scene in a dark-colored Sedan. Two women were the victims, one of which was injured. Their purses and cellphones were taken.


DECEMBER 17 

BURGLARY OF VEHICLE 

At approximately 12:10 AM, an officer observed a vehicle parked on the south side of the 3800 block of Potomac Avenue with an unlocked driver's door. The police officer then found that the glove compartment and center console of the vehicle were open, so he contacted the vehicle's owner. The owner stated that someone must have broken in and removed property without permission. 

ACCIDENT INVOLVING DAMAGE TO VEHICLE 

At approximately 11:39 AM, an officer responded to the 4600 block of Edmondson Avenue to investigate a reported hit and run. The caller stated that his vehicle was parked facing eastbound in the 4600 block of Edmondson Avenue when someone had struck his passenger's side door and fled without leaving any identifying information. The accident occurred between 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM. 

FOUND PROPERTY 

An officer responded to the lobby of HPDS and was informed that an individual had come in a few hours earlier and left a blue women's wallet. The wallet had been found on the parkway in front of the 3400 block of Harvard Avenue. No other information was left. 

FOUND PROPERTY 

A person came to the lobby of 4700 Drexel Drive to drop off a set of keys. They were found near the pool on the block of 38000 block of Lexington Avenue. 


All information provided by HPPD 

Riley Heruska
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This month is always the month of movies. Something about the holidays encourages families to flock to the theaters for the latest and greatest, and Hollywood has brought their A-game this year. If you're in the mood to grab some popcorn and settle in for a new film, here are the top flicks to check out over the next few weeks. 

Star Wars: The Last Jedi 



Easily the most anticipated movie of this month, this newest installment in the Star Wars saga brings emotional twists and epic battles together to honor one of the most beloved series of all time. Daisy Ridley returns in her role as Rey, a young woman who has become enveloped in the world of the Force and Jedi. As she trains with Luke Skywalker, secrets from the past begin to unravel, and she must embark on a new adventure with Lei, Finn, and Poe. Find out if the dark side is more powerful than anyone thought on December 15. 

Coco



Young Miguel can't stop making music, but his family won't hear of it. After one of his ancestors abandoned his family to pursue the life of a musician, music has been banned from the house. On the hallowed Day of the Dead, Miguel attempts to enter a contest to begin his career as a world-famous musician, but he accidentally stumbles into the Land of the Dead. Full of bright colors, Mexican culture, fun characters, and of course, catchy songs, Coco is a film the entire family can enjoy. Catch it in theaters now. 

Downsizing 



Paul Safranek (played by Matt Damon) is an occupational therapist who decides to undergo a new medical procedure alongside his wife (Kristen Wiig). Together, then enter a "downsized" world where life is full of luxury. Clearly a social satire, the film tackles big themes like saving the environment and what it means to be happy. Amusing and original, Downsizing is definitely worth checking out on December 22. 

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle 



Many of us grew up watching the Jumanji movie with Robin Williams, and now the story is returning in a new form. Four very different teenagers stumble across an old video game and decide to give it a shot, only to be sucked into a strange world as adult avatars from the video game. Starring Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart, this is one comical holiday release you won't want to miss. Look for it in theaters on December 20. 

The Greatest Showman



Academy Award nominee Hugh Jackman takes on the role of P.T. Barnum, the legendary showman. When he loses his job, Barnum decides to create a spectacular show unlike any other witnessed before. Told in the form of a musical, the tale follows Barnum's show as it becomes a worldwide sensation full of brilliant stars and heart-stopping performances. Catch big names like Zac Efron and Zendaya in this larger than life production, which hits theaters December 20. 

Pitch Perfect 3  



The Bellas are back for one last time in this third film. The girls may have won the World Championship, but they aren't content to retire to quiet lives just yet. Together, they head overseas for a new competition full of catchy tunes, new characters, crazy antics, and friendship. Join Beca, Fat Amy, Chloe, and the rest of the gang once more on December 21. 

Phantom Thread 



Reynolds Woodcock (played by Daniel Day-Lewis) is one of the best dressmakers in post World War II London. His creations are at the center of British fashion, and he spends his days dressing glamorous stars, debutantes, and even members of the royal family with the help of his sister. However, when he meets one woman, his world is turned upside down. Alma (Vicky Krieps) is unlike any other lady he's known with her strong will and inspiring personality. His life quickly becomes overrun with their romance, but will it wreck his career? Find out in theaters on Christmas Day. 

In the Fade 



When her husband and son both die tragically in a bomb attack, Katja's life begins to fall apart. The only thing that seems to drag her out of her mourning is a plan for revenge. Deep and emotional, In the Fade tackles xenophobia and other pressing issues. Head to the theaters on December 27 to witness this intense story told by German director Fatih Akin. 

What movies are you most excited to see? Tell us in the comments! 

Riley Heruska
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Everyone has a friend that's always jetting off to new, exciting places. Whether they're traveling with family, with a significant other, or solo, they'll totally appreciate a few thoughtful gifts that can accompany them on their next adventure. Show them that you support their wanderlust by wrapping up one of these travel-friendly presents. 

Luxurious Sleep Mask: When you're on the road or in the air a lot, grabbing some quality zzz's can be challenging. A silky eyemask will help block out the light and encourage your traveling bestie to get some much-needed rest on their next vacation. This one from Amazon is a must-have, and it's so affordable! 

Lonely Planet's Ultimate Travel: Our List of the 500 Best Places to See... Ranked: Every avid traveler has a bucket list that's a mile long. Help them add to theirs with this amazing book. They'll love flipping through the gorgeous pictures of faraway destinations, and you might even give them some inspiration for their next big trip. Plus, it's the perfect coffee table book for your globetrotter. 

Travel Jewelry Box: No one likes unpacking their bag only to find that all of their necklaces and earrings have become a tangled, unsolvable mess. Travel jewelry boxes are perfect for keeping everything separated and neat, even during mad scrambles through busy airports. 

Set of Packing Cubes: These things are a genius solution for keeping your suitcase organized, even on long trips. Travelers can dedicate specific purposes to each cube, then zip them up and keep them neatly tucked inside their luggage. Later, it'll be easy to find everything and keep dirty clothes separated from the fresh ones. 

Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Try sitting next to a screaming infant on a ten-hour flight back to America from the U.K., then ask if noise-canceling headphones are really necessary for frequent travelers. 

Instax Mini Polaroid Camera: Chances are, the traveler you know adores preserving their epic adventures in pictures. Even though they probably already have their own camera, they'll have so much fun with a Polaroid camera that allows them to quickly print and share photos with their companions. 

Bathroom Bag Set: Spilled bathroom products, smashed makeup, and other toiletry messes are a terrible way to begin any vacation. Buy your traveling friend a set of nice, versatile bathroom bags that will keep all of their liquids and products easily stored. Make sure to get one that's water-resistant and easy to fit in carry-on luggage. 

Quality Skin Care Products: Travel can take a real toll on a person's skin. Windy hikes, sunny beaches, long hours of travel, and busy schedules can leave people on the move looking haggard. Help your giftee combat dark circles and dry skin with a set of high-end skin care products. Make sure they come with SPF! 

Personalized Luggage Tags: Spotting a traditional black suitcase at baggage claim can be like trying to find a needle in a haystack. Help your friend's luggage standout with a set of personalized, eye-catching luggage tags. It's a thoughtful gift that they'll be able to use for years to come. 

NorthFace Jacket: It's nearly impossible not to feel a little chilled while riding on an airplane, and a NorthFace jacket is a perfect way to warm up a traveler. Trust me, they'll take that jacket with them everywhere, from long flights to hikes along The Great Wall of China. You simply can't go wrong with one of these high-quality, multi-purposed layers. 

Hiking Boots: Frequent travelers are often some of the most outdoorsy people we know. Therefore, a pair of sturdy hiking boots is a must-have. Purchase them a pair that can carry them up and down mountains, as well as long hikes through National Parks and other places. However, do be careful: not all hiking boots are created equal, so try to find the brand and size that will work best for your giftee. 

What are you going to buy for your traveling friend? Leave other ideas in the comments! 

Riley Heruska
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'Tis the season for non-stop baking! Gingerbread houses, cookies for Santa, pies, fudge, peanut brittle... The list of seasonal treats goes on and on. In search of a few ideas to spice up your usual dessert showcase? Here are a few recipes that play on traditional sweets while adding a fun holiday twist.

Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate 

Hot chocolate is a staple during December, but have you ever tried to make it with a slow cooker? This recipe from Sally's Baking Addiction will help you create the most decadent, soul-warming hot chocolate ever. Dump some whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, chocolate, cocoa powder, and vanilla into your Crock Pot, then leave everything to simmer. Approximately six hours later, you'll have a delectable liquid treat that can keep the whole family toasty. Who wants to stir in a packet of premade hot cocoa when you can have a batch of thick, homemade goodness? 

Christmas Cookie Dough Dip 

If you really want to take your gingerbread house party to the next level, consider serving this dip. Fluffy and wonderfully creamy, the dip by Dinner at the Zoo goes perfectly with cookies, fruits, pretzels, and other easy snacks. All you'll need is some yogurt, cream cheese, flour, sugar, vanilla, sprinkles, and butter. However, heed this warning: once you start dunking a few gingerbread men into this delicious concoction, you might not be able to stop. 

Gingerbread Cheesecake 

Speaking of gingerbread, let's add a little to an amazing cheesecake recipe! Lindsay from Life, Love and Sugar whipped up a cheesecake that comes with a delicious shortbread crust, gingerbread filling, and a molasses mouse topping. You really couldn't ask for a better holiday twist. Although cheesecakes can be a little difficult to make on your first try, Linday's easy-to-follow recipe will walk you through the process smoothly. 

Candy Cane Crescent Roll

If you want to wow your overnight guests in the morning or plan something special for early Christmas day, this crescent roll breakfast pastry is the way to go. The recipe from 3 Yummy Tummies is full of gooey cream cheese and cherry pie filling, and the festive shape makes the breakfast even more festive. The best part? You can use refrigerated crescent rolls as the base, so this dish only takes fifteen minutes to prepare! 
 
Eggnog Snickerdoodles 

Snickerdoodles are a common cookie favorite, but why not make them a little more special by adding a splash of a traditional Christmas drink? The added eggnog flavor makes these perfectly chewy snickerdoodles even better, and the recipe from Amy's Healthy Baking is incredibly simple to follow. An added bonus: each cookie is less than 100 calories, so you can indulge without feeling guilty.

Reindeer Rice Krispies 

Rice Krispie Treats are hardly a unique idea, but you can make them a little more Christmas-themed by adding some cute antlers, eyes, and a button nose. Mique from Thirty Handmade Days turned an ordinary batch of plain Rice Krispie Treats into adorable reindeer. Simple, but downright cute and delicious. 

Grinch Popcorn 

Little kids gobble up popcorn on a regular basis, but they'll get a real kick out of this lime-green treat mixed with red M&Ms and marshmallows. The popcorn looks like something straight out of Whoville, and it's the perfect companion for a family viewing of Dr. Suess' How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Nancy from Two Sisters Crafting can show you to mix a bowl quickly and easily. 

Salted Caramel Chocolate Fudge 

Sure, everyone loves a classic chocolate fudge, but why not add an extra layer of mouth-watering salted caramel? The Recipe Critic can show you how to bake a batch quickly, and the yummy fudge squares are sure to win the hearts of all your holiday guests. Stick some in a sealed container and gift it to your neighbors or your children's teachers. Trust me, no one will turn down this addictive treat. 

Riley Heruska
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As cold weather brings us all inside, it's the perfect time to cuddle up with some novels full of holiday cheer. We did a round-up of great seasonal novels for adults recently, and now we want to give you a few ideas for the younger readers in your family. Here are five of the best Christmas-themed novels for young adults: 

Let It Snow: Three Holiday Romances by John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle 

Three bestselling YA authors have teamed up to weave a few tales of Christmas magic and holiday romance. Each of the tales in Let It Snow is full of heart and charm, and you'll immediately want to cozy up by a fire to devour all of them. The stories are only about 100 pages each, so any young adult reader will gobble up this sweet anthology in no time. 

"The authors share an ironic, idiosyncratic sense of humor that helps bind their stories, each with a slightly different tone and take on love, into one interconnected volume brimming with romance and holiday spirit." - Horn Book 

What Light by Jay Asher 

Does the author's name sound familiar? That's because he wrote the famous Thirteen Reasons Why. Now, he tells the story of a young girl, Sierra, whose family runs a Christmas tree farm. When Sierra meets a young man who's made some terrible mistakes in his past, she must learn to forgive what seems unforgivable. Moving and memorable, this romance will leave your heart changed.

"Charming and sweet, Sierra and Caleb’s budding relationship should suit readers looking for a wintertime romance that’s as cozy (and familiar) as candy canes and gingerbread during the holidays." - Publishers Weekly

Dash & Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan 

Lily left a red notebook of challenges in a bookstore in hopes that her perfect boy would eventually pick it up and complete it. When Dash stumbles across the book, he decides to play his own game with Lily. The two teens embark on a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and maybe even a little romance. Their adventures throughout snowy New York will instantly have you dreaming of a white Christmas.

"The spirit of the season amplifies Dash and Lily’s loneliness and heightens the connection between them, in another surefire hit from the creators of Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist (2006)." - Courtney Jones from Booklist 

My True Love Gave to Me: Twelve Holiday Stories by Stephanie Perkins and Others

Bestseller Stephanie Perkins teamed up with twelve other amazing authors to bring you this anthology of holiday specials. Full of romance and heart, these stories celebrate many kinds of winter holidays, from Hannukkah to the Winter Solstice. You'll fall head-over-heels for the cute short tales, and they'll 100 percent leave any young adult reader in the holiday spirit.

“There's no shortage of cozy setups for holiday romance in this captivating collection of short stories…a rare seasonal treat.” - Publishers Weekly (starred review)

My New Crush Gave to Me by Shani Petroff 

All Charlotte wants for Christmas is to earn the attention of Teo Ortiz, her school's most popular athlete and student. She knows they are meant to be together, but he barely even acknowledges her existence. So, she comes up with a plan, which involves working with Teo's annoying cousin, J.D. Charlie knows she's meant to go to the Christmas ball with Teo, but she can't seem to stop getting stuck with J.D. Cute and sweet as Christmas cookies, this teen novel is the perfect holiday companion.

"Petroff (Romeo and What’s Her Name, 2017) offers up a frothy, Christmas-themed romance where what’s perfect on paper may not always be what’s right... It’s light as powdered sugar and just as sweet." - Booklist


Do you have other holiday book suggestions for teen readers? Leave suggestions in the comments below!  

Riley Heruska
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DECEMBER 4

THEFT OF PROPERTY AND EVASION OF ARREST 

At approximately 2:05 PM, an officer received a call from an employee at a store in the HPSV stating that two black males had just attempted to make purchases with fake credit cards. 

FAILURE TO LEAVE ID AT ACCIDENT 

An officer was dispatched to the 4200 block of Mockingbird Lane at approximately 2:00 PM to address a FLID. The victim stated that a silver Nissan struck the rear driver side bumper of his car, then left the scene without leaving behind the necessary information. 


DECEMBER 5

ACCIDENT INVOLVING INJURY 

At 6:36 PM in the 4200 block of Oak Lawn Avenue, a pedestrian was struck by a motor vehicle. The victim was sitting on a bench in pain when the police arrived. A witness was present and gave the police information on the vehicle that struck the victim. The witness stated that the driver of the vehicle appeared to be a white female and that the suspect vehicle left immediately after the incident. 


DECEMBER 7

BURGLARY OF A VEHICLE 

A victim stated that between 10:30 PM on December 6 and 8:40 AM the next morning, her vehicle was burglarized while it was parked in the driveway of her residence in the 4300 block of Arcady Avenue. Credit cards, a purse, sunglasses, and a driver's license were taken without permission. 

FAILURE TO LEAVE ID AT ACCIDENT 

At approximately 12:34 PM, an officer was dispatched to the 4100 block of Lomo Alto Drive to investigate a hit and run accident. The victim stated that between 12:24 PM and 12:34 PM, someone had struck her vehicle while it was legally parked. There was visible damage but no suspect. 

FOUND PROPERTY 

A resident brought two debit cards into the police station. She found them at the intersection of Princeton Avenue and Hillcrest Road. 


DECEMBER 8 

FAILURE TO LEAVE ID AT ACCIDENT 

At approximately 10:13 PM, an officer was dispatched to the 3900 block of Mockingbird Lane in regards to a minor accident. The victim was driving her car when it was swiped by another vehicle. The suspect vehicle then left without leaving any identifying information behind. 


DECEMBER 10 

FOUND PROPERTY 

An officer was dispatched to the 4400 block of Belclaire Avenue at approximately 4:55 PM. A resident had found the contents of a woman's purse strewn about the area and wanted to turn them into the police. 

All information provided by HPPD 

Riley Heruska
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DECEMBER 5

UNAUTHORIZED USE OF VEHICLE 

An officer responded to the 3800 block of McFarlin Boulevard at approximately 7:13 AM in regards to a possible Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle. 

BURGLARY OF VEHICLE 

A witness observed a truck stopped in the 4000 block of Villanova Drive behind another vehicle. The witness stated that someone was at the back window taking the third-row seat out of the second vehicle and throwing them in the pickup bed. The truck then sped away, but the witness took a picture of the truck and its license plate. 


DECEMBER 6

EVADING ARREST DETENTION 

An officer encountered a vehicle in the 5900 block of Key Street that did not obey instructions given while directing traffic. The vehicle was advised that he was detained, but he left the area anyway. A valid license plate was obtained. 


DECEMBER 8

BURGLARY OF VEHICLE 

An unknown suspect removed all four tires from a victim's legally parked vehicle in the 3600 block of Purdue Street. The theft occurred between 7:00 PM the night before and 7:13 AM the next morning. 

BURGLARY OF VEHICLE 

A wire was taken from a work van parked in the 2700 block of Fondren Drive at approximately 4:04 AM. 

DUTY ON STRIKING UNATTENDED VEHICLE 

An unknown suspect struck a victim's legally parked vehicle in the 6900 block of Westchester Drive and did not attempt to contact the victim or leave any information behind. 


DECEMBER 10 

BURGLARY OF VEHICLE 

A victim stated that an unknown person had entered her vehicle without permission and stolen her purse while it was parked in the 8400 block of Hillcrest Avenue. The theft occurred between 8:00 and 9:00 AM. 

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF 

A victim stated that an unknown person had damaged her Christmas decorations in the front yard of her residence in the 3900 block of Marquette Street between 1:00 AM and 9:00 AM. 

All information provided by UPPD 

Riley Heruska
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So, you got assigned a name for your workplace's Secret Santa party, and you've put shopping off until the last minute. You don't want to resign yourself to another easy but boring gift like a Christmas mug or a gift card, but you're not sure what else to go for. No worries! Here are some great gift ideas that won't cost you much but that will bring a smile to anyone's face, regardless of how well you know them. 

Package of Unique Socks. Who won't enjoy some Harry Potter or Christmas-themed socks, especially with all of the cold weather hitting Texas lately? 

Cheap Bluetooth Speaker. Ever noticed the $5 ones in the front section of Target? Friends of all ages will find a use for one, especially if they love jamming out to music at their desks or on the go. 

Table-Top Game: There's some sort of cheap game for everyone. Look into Prosecco Pong, a small pool table, or a miniature foosball table. 

Cute Little Plant: Give your friend a chance to embrace their green thumb with a cactus or succulent. They can survive with fairly small amounts of water, so they'll stay alive for a long time, even if the giftee isn't great with plants. 

Mini-Waffle Maker: Did you know you can score one of these cute little appliances for just $18? It's pretty much a no-brainer.

Cozy Blanket: Right now plenty of stores are offering great deals on fuzzy blankets, and they're the perfect kind of gift for a cold December party.  

Calendar With a Fun Theme: 2018 is almost here, and you know what that means: time to open a brand new calendar! 

Quality Waterbottle: This might sound boring, but anyone will appreciate an insulated bottle that keeps their drinks icy and refreshing all day. 

Lip Balm: I'm not talking about some fruity Smuckers. I'm talking about high-end stuff that will keep both women and men's lips from cracking during this chilly weather. 

Leather Journal: The written word isn't dead yet! Give your person a lovely place to jot down important thoughts and lists. 

Luggage Tag Set: If you're shopping for an avid traveler, they can never have enough colorful luggage tags to use. Bonus points if you get it personalized for them! 

Pair of Bluetooth Headphones: No more tangled cords in their bag, and you won't have to hear them play their tunes on their desktop speakers. 

Funny Flask: Whether they enjoy the occasional alcoholic beverage or not, most people will get a kick out of a decorated flask with a witty statement on it. 

Set of Fashionable Coasters: No one likes a coffee table with stains on it. 

Phone Mount for a Car: With the new no texting while driving law in Texas, everyone should be using one of these so they keep their eyes on the road instead of on their phone in their lap. 


What other great Secret Santa ideas do you have? Let us know in the comments! 

Riley Heruska
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The holidays can take a real toll on your wallet, so sometimes it's nice to engage in a few festivities that don't cost much. Need a few ideas? Here's a list of holiday-themed activities that will hardly cost you anything but that will leave your family with plenty of heartwarming memories.

1. Take a drive around a beautifully lit neighborhood. No Christmas is complete without witnessing some twinkling holiday lights. Ask around and find out which nearby neighborhood has the most impressive displays to check out. Bring along some hot cocoa and Christmas tunes to really make the night special. 

2. Craft your own ornaments. Little kids love arts and crafts, especially when they get to see their finished masterpieces hanging from a gorgeous tree. Get out the glue, glitter, popsicle sticks, and any other materials you can find lying around the house. Encourage everybody to get creative! Not only will you spend a few hours having fun together, but you'll also build memories to treasure for years to come. 

3. Host a Christmas cookie decorating contest. A few tubs of frosting, some sprinkles, and candy will go a long way in this activity. Challenge all of the participants to create the best-looking cookies for Santa, then decide on a winner. Oh, and don't forget to gobble a few up once the contest ends. 

4. Write and decorate some letters to Santa. Although this concept seems like a timeless tradition to some, fewer and fewer families seem to actually carry it out. Get out some pretty stationary and stickers, then get to work creating the perfect note for the jolly old man. Remember, it's kind to say thank you as well as list your secret Christmas wishes! 

5. Go to the library and check out a stack of holiday books. Holiday bedtime stories are a great way to spend some quality time together, and luckily most libraries have more than a few holiday picture books available. Make an event out of going to pick some out, then snuggle up to enjoy them before going to sleep one night. 

6. Cut out paper snowflakes and hang them in your windows. It's such a simple task, but it's a great way to deck the halls and get a little creative. Plus, we don't get much snow here in Texas, so someone's got to sprinkle a few snowflakes around the place! 

7. Gather up your gently used toys and clothes to donate to a nearby shelter. It's always nice to clear out some clutter as the new year comes around, and it's a special way to give back to those in need at this time of year. 

8. Host a holiday movie night, complete with candy canes and festive popcorn flavors. Vote on the best holiday movie available, then cozy up for a simple family movie night. Bonus points if everyone wears their most festive holiday pajamas. 

9. Road marshmallows over an open fire. Sticky, gooey hands are totally acceptable during this winter activity, and the addition of chocolate bars and graham crackers is definitely encouraged. 

10. Make gingerbread houses from scratch. Anyone can buy one of those expensive gingerbread kits from the store, but this year, try baking the gingerbread pieces at home then assembling a house that is uniquely your own. It might be messy and your homemade house might end up looking a little lopsided, but it's a more unique and engaging experience. 

11. Attend a local holiday parade. There are many throughout the area, so take to your local news sites and keep your eyes peeled. Parades are usually free to attend, and they're a great way to soak up some holiday cheer and spend an afternoon with the family. 

12. Send out holiday cards to friends and family. It might be expensive to get professional cards printed, but you can always make your own at home. No loved one is going to object to receiving a handmade card wishing them a happy holiday, especially if it's covered in fun drawings and festive colors. 

13. Volunteer your time at a local homeless shelter, soup kitchen, or hospital. After all, it is the season of giving, and what better way is there to spread the holiday spirit than by donating your time to a worthy cause? A simple Google search will let you know what organizations near you are searching for Christmas volunteers. 

14. Watch The Nutcracker on television. Tickets to see the famous ballet might come at a steep price, but anyone can view a lovely production from home. Do some research and figure out when a local production airs, then gather round and enjoy a Tchaikovsky Christmas tradition. 

15. Have everyone dress up for a special Christmas dinner. Even if you're just having a simple meal of spaghetti and meatballs, it's always fun to spice things up with a little luxury when the holidays roll around. Pick a meal with family and have every look their best. Don't forget to snap a few photos while everyone's in their fancy outfits!

How do you and your family celebrate the holidays without breaking your budget? Leave other ideas in the comments! 

Riley Heruska
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Spending your holidays in the Dallas/Fort Worth area? Then you're in luck because there's a host of amazing events taking place during December. From entertaining holiday musicals to some of the best Christmas light displays in the country, North Texas doesn't hold back when it comes to celebrating the best time of year. The only question is, how will you fit all of these festive activities in over the next few weeks? 

The Trains at NorthPark Center (Now - January 7)  

For the past 30 years, the NorthPark center has been home to an impressive display of 1600 feet of track and hundreds of miniature trains. More than 70,000 visitors stop by every year, and their tickets help benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas. Over the past few decades, the trains have raised more than $13 million for families in need. Get your exhibit tickets now and enjoy a truly unique holiday experience in Dallas. 

Dr. Suess' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical at the Winspear Opera House (Select Dates Through December 17) 

Watch as one of the most beloved holiday tales comes to life in a musical, magical production. Featuring all of the classic songs you know and love, the production is an engaging version of Dr. Suess' devious story that children and adults alike will enjoy. Take a trip to Whoville and learn the true meaning of Christmas sometime this month by purchasing tickets online. 

The Gift of Christmas at Prestwood Church (Select Dates Through December 17) 

On certain dates during the month of December, this Plano church will play host to an impressive display of Christmas songs, dances, and a live nativity. Witness a high-value production that will leave you in the Christmas spirit and impress viewers of all ages. Tickets are on sale now, but they might sell out soon, so act quickly if you want to enjoy this spectacular holiday celebration. 

Santa Claus: A New Musical in Fort Worth (Select Dates Through December 23)

The Casa Manana is putting on a show unlike any other, and it's sure to entertain audience members of all ages. Santa Claus has decided he's retiring, and it's time for him to select an heir. Full of catchy tunes and holiday cheer, Santa Claus: A New Musical is sure to win the hearts of your entire family. It might even become a yearly tradition! To browse showtimes or purchase tickets, visit www.casamanana.org. 

A Charlie Brown Christmas at the Dallas Children's Theatre (Select Dates Through December 23)  

See the timeless animated classic brought to life on stage this Christmas season. Children of all ages will get a kick out of Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and his other friends as they rediscover the true meaning of the holiday. Full of music, heart, and talented performances, this show is one your family won't soon forget.  To browse showtimes or purchase tickets, visit this website. 

Santa Claus and His Village at the Galleria Dallas (Now - December 24) 

If your children are desperate to tell Santa what they want for Christmas, then you'll want to head over to the magical Village at the Galleria. Santa will be available daily for photos with the little ones, and he'll even listen to those gift requests you've been hearing for the past month. Visit www.galleriadallas.com to learn when the big guy will be available. 

The Dallas Jingle Bell Run (December 21) 

For more than twenty years, families have turned out for a nighttime 5k race, one-mile fun run, and festive party hosted by the Generaltional Group. The proceeds from the event go to the Trinity Strand Trail and the Mavs Foundation, and there's more to do than just run. Carolers, music, free jingle bells, glow sticks, holiday attire, and so many other additions make this event one you won't want to miss. Learn more at www.dallasjinglebellrun.com. 

Dallas Theater Center's A Christmas Carol (Select Dates Through December 28) 

The Wyly Theater is proud to present Dickens' timeless tale as it's brought to life on their big stage. Bring the kids along and enjoy a festive production full of special effects, talented actors, fun songs, and more. You might know the age-old story, but you've probably never seen it presented like this. Even the biggest Scrooge in your family will get a kick out of the stellar performance. To learn more about showtimes and how to purchase tickets, visit http://www.dallastheatercenter.org.

Enchant: The World's Largest Christmas Light Maze and Market (Now - December 31) 

Millions of dazzling lights will twinkle as you make your way through an ornate Christmas maze. Afterward, ice-skate on a frozen pond, browse goods at the Christmas marketplace, or sip on a steaming cup of hot cocoa. Hosted at the Globe Life Park in Arlington, this is one holiday event you'll simply never forget. Tickets are on sale now, so scoop some up while they're still available! 

Praire Lights (Now Until December 31) 

At this premier holiday light park in Grand Prairie, you can witness more than 4 million beautiful lights without even leaving the warm comfort of your car. Drive through the beautiful tunnels or get out and walk through a magical forest and fun holiday village. There are concession stands, photo opportunities, and gift shops to peruse in the village. The whole family can come, but tickets are going quickly, so visit priairelights.org to snag some now. 

ICE! Featuring 'Twas the Night Before Christmas (Now - January 1) 

This walk-through attraction features more than two million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures, five ice slides, and freezing cold temperatures. Bundle up and spend an afternoon wandering through this winter wonderland, then explore the Gaylord's many (warmer) holiday attractions when you're finished. This year's theme is 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, and it's sure to be a hit with visitors of all ages. Buy your tickets online today. 

The 12 Days of Christmas at the Dallas Arboretum (Now - January 2) 

Now is the perfect time to meander through the beautiful gardens located in Dallas. There are a dozen decorated gazebos full of mesmerizing scenes from the timeless Christmas carol, as well as yummy drinks and a display of 800 gorgeous nutcrackers. You can check the exhibit out during the day or wait until nighttime when the gardens are illuminated by thousands of sparkling lights. Check out ticket availability here. 

Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Over Texas (Now - January 7) 

Six Flags is always a fun place for a family outing, but it's never more enjoyable than during the holidays. The theme park transforms into a breathtaking wonderland and introduces several holiday-themed activities that you can only participate in at this time of year. Ride a few roller coasters, visit Santa, chow down on some s'mores, and browse the Merry Marketplace with friends and family. There's even an artificial hill of snow you can sled down! Purchase your tickets in advance so you won't miss out on any of the best shows and activities. 

Holidays at the George W. Bush Presidential Center (Now - January 7)

Did you know the George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas celebrates the holidays, too? The center features an exhibit called "All Things Bright and Beautiful" that emphasizes the beauty of nature during the winter months. Browse gorgeous flower arrangements, photos from the presidency, colorful murals, and more. You might even feel like you popped over to the real White House during the Christmas season of 2005 after wandering through the festive showcase. 

Holiday Wonder at Fair Park (Now - January 7) 

New this year, the Holiday Wonder event in Dallas' Fair Park is an outdoor walk-through wonderland composed of eye-catching Chinese lanterns. More than two million lights illuminate figures of Santa Claus, floating swans, and other holiday favorites. There are also shows, music, dancing, a snowflake corridor, hot chocolate, and a huge slide. Tickets for this exciting light festival are available online, so grab yours now. 


What other festivities this month do you know of in the DFW area? Leave other recommendations for locals in the comments below, and have a wonderful December!