This year the holiday season will be different. Holiday celebrations will be smaller and more intimate. Temples and churches will have different ways to celebrate the meaning of the season with zoom.  There will likely be less holiday travel.  No matter these differences, there are meaningful ways we celebrate together as family and friends. It’s an even better reason to be organized this holiday season.

 

Family planning

A meaningful holiday starts with a family meeting about what is most important to each family member.  Some of these may be different this year.  Acknowledge the differences and sadness about this.  Think about what will make this year special. Be open to new ideas and new ways to celebrate. It remains important to add all these dates to your family calendar.

 

Family travel

A greater percentage of families (51%) are choosing to stay home this year. It’s a family to family decision. If you decide to travel, remember your wellness packages with extra hand sanitizer and multiple face masks.

If you find that you need a new way for your long distance family to gather here are a few ideas.

• Compete in a family virtual scavenger hunt.
• Play a family game together online like Psych, a guessing game.
• Play virtual card games like Crazy Eights

If you are travelling, there are ongoing changes to restrictions. Be sure you are knowledgeable about these changes.

Family gifts

This may be the best year to change up your gift giving. It may be making this a smaller budget, deciding the number of gifts you are giving or deciding to donate to charity instead of gift giving. Be thoughtful and intentional about what you are sharing.

Homemade gifts have a special meaning during the holidays. Set aside time for your family tradition of making homemade gifts together or start a new tradition.  Cooking, baking, canning, sewing or other crafts are a wonderful way to spend time together and share your holiday joy.

 

Family dinner

Everyone can be a chef during this year’s holiday dinners.  Divide up recipes and every can cook (and clean) together.  Your family of chefs can complete like Chopped with unusual ingredients.  It’s a great year to teach your family how to roast a turkey or make your family’s special toffee recipe.

 

Family time outside and in

Especially this year, plan family time outside. It can be taking part in a virtual fun run, taking a walk on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, a family football or soccer game or any other outdoor activity. Running around and enjoying time outside will give everyone a change to get some energy out or get energized.

 

No matter the new normal, now is the time to delegate to your family.  Everyone can wrap, decorate, cook, bake and team up.  Make assignments early so you are organized and can enjoy the time together.

 

 

I wish you a very merry holiday season filled with an abundance of joy and meaning.