How to Celebrate Christmas When Your Spouse is Deployed

Nobody likes to be alone on Christmas. This article outlines creative ways to spend the holidays while your spouse or loved one is deployed.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Include your spouse as much as possible.
   
   Sure, your spouse may not be physically with you on Christmas, but do what you can to include him or her in your Christmas plans so that they will feel as close to you as possible this holiday season. Take lots of pictures and videos, then email them to your spouse. Another creative way to include your spouse is to send them some of the holiday gift cards that friends or relatives may have sent you. You can also send your spouse a small gift package with his or her favorite holiday treats and surprises - a stocking, some candy, a Christmas book, or a CD.

2. Stay busy.
   
   Staying busy during the holiday season will help you to keep your mind off the fact that your spouse is not with you this year. Get together with friends and go caroling or to a Christmas party. Don't know very many people? No problem! Throw your own Christmas party and invite all of your neighbors. It'll help you to meet people in the community and make new friends, and you'll have a good time.

3. Don't mope.
   
   Everyone who has spent a Christmas alone knows how difficult it can be to have a good attitude. This year, try your best not to get too down. We all know that Christmas is about family and love, but even though you may be far from your family, you can still have a good time. Remember to pamper yourself this year and do things that you enjoy. Drink your favorite cocoa and read a book, take a bubble bath, or enroll in a class that you've always wanted to take. Christmas doesn't have to be depressing - it's all about your attitude.