One of the best surprises I got with this job (which I started in November of 2005) is that the office is closed between Christmas and New Years Day, and usually a few days before Christmas too. We get the same holiday as the local universities get, because our organization is somehow affiliated with the association that universities and colleges fall under. I was happy that I’d have time to sleep in and socialize in those last couple of days before Christmas, and in the days before New Year’s Eve. When my colleagues told me that this time off was paid I started to believe in Santa Claus again.

My employer kicks off the holidays right: on the last day before holidays begin, we go for lunch at a classy restaurant and get to choose from a delicious menu. Usually while we’re waiting for our meal, we play a game involving the exchange of gifts we were asked to bring in—this year it’s an ornament that we will be swapping. We also do something for a local charity: last year we donated toiletries and money for a shelter; this year we’re collecting money and warm winter clothing for a different organization.

With the halls and common areas of the office decked and Christmas cards displayed on the walls, it’s hard to ignore the fact that Christmas is on its way. My office is in need of some Christmas cheer. I have one of those stands that’s supposed to hold papers or pictures and it sort of looks like a mini tree. My plan is to make some paper ornaments to decorate it with. I’ll share the results with you once I’ve done it.

How does your place of work get into the Christmas spirit?

Filed under: Job by jummy