A Note from Amy

Finding Our Christmas Spirit in a very different Christmas

When we think of the true meaning of Christmas and the spirit of giving, we are reminded more than ever this year of the importance of what we each cherish and the blessings in our lives: our loved ones, our family and friends, our health and ability to move and exercise, having a roof over our head and food to eat.  This year has asked a great deal of us with the ongoing concern of the pandemic and the need to keep both ourselves and our loved ones safe

How can we find joy and the spirit of this season this year while needing to celebrate in our own homes and keep safely physically distanced?

Here are various ways to make 2020 Christmas holiday season special

1. Prioritize the traditions which hold meaning and matter the most to you. Even though this year is different you can still find meaning and reflect on the traditions you have loved in the past to celebrate the holidays. 

2. Trim and decorate your Christmas tree outdoors on the back deck or front porch this year. This can allow you to bundle up with family or friends and safely gather at a distance for short period’s together outside while enjoying your Christmas tree and lights. 

3. Make Special Memories in your own way with your loved ones and honouring new and old traditions and activities you can create together at home or outside in nature.

 4. Find ways to make the most of your time with loved ones. Perhaps having an outdoor winter hike or small safe gathering on your back deck with a bonfire or opening gifts together virtually on face time. 

5. Spread some joy through giving of your time to volunteer, donate to a charity or simply helping a neighbour or someone in need (baking cookies, offering to help with an errand, checking in on someone who may be on their own this holiday). 

6. Remember what is different may make this holiday more special if we can create new meaning. Often it is when we face a loss or major change as we are now, that we can practice gratitude for what we have in our lives and celebrate the big and small joys, that our time together can be more meaningful and in the moment.

 Most importantly celebrate in a way which reflects who you are and what you value most, and remember sometimes the simplest things are the most beautiful and meaningful. 

Wishing you a gentle, peaceful, safe and meaningful holiday with your loved ones

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

 Amy