Dawn Fritz+FollowChampaign’s holiday spirit shines brightThere’s a contagious wave of good vibes sweeping through Champaign this holiday season. Whether you’re catching up with old friends over dinner or just asking a stranger for help at the grocery store, the warmth and cheer are impossible to miss. Even Illini football fans have extra reasons to celebrate after a nail-biting win over Tennessee in the Music City Bowl. It feels like everyone’s embracing the season—sharing smiles, swapping stories, and even sending long-lost Christmas cards. What’s your favorite way to spread or soak up this community spirit as we ring in the new year? #Sports #Champaign #HolidaySpirit00Share
Shelia Miller+FollowElf on the Shelf brings smiles to Baltimore kidsHoliday magic is alive at Johns Hopkins Children's Center, where the Elf on the Shelf tradition is turning hospital stays into moments of joy for young patients. Staff across the hospital have gotten creative, staging elves inspired by TikTok trends and Taylor Swift hits, and even giving each elf its own social media presence. For kids spending the holidays away from home, these playful surprises are making a real difference. It’s heartwarming to see how a simple tradition can brighten spirits—what other small acts do you think could help families in tough times? #News #Baltimore #HolidaySpirit00Share
Larissa wilson+FollowHoliday Joy & Hope: Family Blessings Remind Us of Love, Kindness, and Compassion 🌟🎄 With our hearts full of light and love, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Getting to know our great-grandson Willie in his first year has been a true blessing — a reminder of the hope we always carry for the future. 💖 Let’s continue to seek love, kindness, and compassion in one another this season. #FamilyJoy #HolidaySpirit #Christmas2025 #LoveAndHope #NewGeneration”604130Share
Larissa wilson+FollowA Very American Christmas Comeback Story It’s the kind of story that feels uniquely American — hard times, resilience, and a comeback just in time for Christmas.#ChristmasStory #AmericanResilience #ComebackStory #Hope Against the odds, perseverance and hope won out, reminding us that even after setbacks, a second chance is possible. Sometimes, the greatest victories aren’t loud — they’re personal.#Perseverance #HolidaySpirit #NewsBreak178Share
Henry Chan+FollowSanta’s helicopter surprise at SRMCSanta made a grand entrance at UNM Sandoval Regional Medical Center, landing by helicopter to spread holiday cheer to staff and patients. The whole place lit up with excitement—there were cookies, eggnog, ugly sweaters, and even a gingerbread house contest. The Grinch joined in, too, making peace with Santa and helping deliver gifts! Staff brought their kids, snapped photos with Santa by the tree, and shared plenty of laughs. It’s moments like these that remind us how important community spirit is, especially in a hospital setting. What’s your favorite way to bring joy during the holidays? #News #SantaVisit #HolidaySpirit00Share
Hannah Garcia+FollowHoliday cheer and gifts light up Chicago seniorsChristmas spirit was in full swing as Indian Seniors of Chicago surprised over 400 members with stainless steel plate sets—just in time for the holidays! The gathering buzzed with birthday celebrations, flower bouquets, and heartfelt prayers, all thanks to dedicated volunteers and generous sponsors. Beyond the gifts, the event was a reminder of how community connections and simple gestures can make the season brighter for everyone. How do you see these kinds of traditions shaping our neighborhoods? Let’s talk about ways we can keep the festive spirit alive all year round! #Safety #ChicagoCommunity #HolidaySpirit00Share
Amanda Wright+FollowThe first Christmas without Dad, but we still set a plate for him. Mom insisted on it. I thought it would be too sad, but as we sat around the table sharing stories about the time Dad burned the turkey, I felt like he was right there. The grief is still real, but love is learning how to move forward with the memories. #Grief #Family #InMemory #HolidaySpirit10Share
Kathy Phillips+FollowThe First Christmas Without My Wife. Then the Neighbor Knocked.My wife used to handle all the decorations. This year, the house was silent and dark; I just wanted to sleep through it. Suddenly, a knock. The young couple next door stood there with hot dumplings and homemade gingerbread men. "Grandpa, Merry Christmas, we made too much." I knew it was a lie; they just didn't want me to be alone. Those dumplings were the warmest meal I've ever had. #Loneliness #Neighbors #Kindness #HolidaySpirit110Share
otaylor+FollowChristmas Kindness Comes Full CircleYou won’t believe this real-life holiday twist: A guy helps a stranger on the side of the road before Christmas, gives her his last $40, and three years later, she shows up as his sick mom’s nurse’s aide! The connection stuns everyone, and after his mom passes (on the aide’s birthday!), the family raises $35K to help her become a nurse. Proof that small acts of kindness can boomerang back in the wildest ways. #Religion #Godwinks #HolidaySpirit70Share