10 Safe Ways to Live Big® This Holiday Season
December 10, 2020
Fun Stuff
The upcoming holiday season – much like the rest of this year – will be unlike any we have experienced before. For most of us, while large family gatherings can be stressful, the thought of not having any family celebrations this year is a disappointing one. And while 2020 has had quite the memorable impact on all of us, not having any family gatherings this holiday season would further submit its infamy in our minds. At Yeske Buie we take pride in helping you live your best Live Big® life, and this holiday season is no different. In this space, we share ten tips and ideas to help you safely navigate this holiday season and keep old traditions alive by approaching them with a fresh perspective.
1. Holiday Lights
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- This year, because many of us are hosting outdoor gatherings and are unable to see one another’s indoor decorations, outdoor holiday displays have taken on an even greater importance. Personally, I’ve always enjoyed visiting houses that have synchronized their holiday lights with holiday music (see one of my favorite examples from the movie Deck The Halls.)
- Here are two lists detailing outdoor lights displays in the Washington, DC and San Francisco Bay And in true 2020 fashion, you can also view a number of beautiful lights displays virtually from your couch if you prefer (or are required) to stay at home.
2. “Zoom-By”
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- Zoom and other virtual call platforms have become a routine in all our lives. And while we are grateful that they provide us with the opportunity to “see” our loved ones during the holidays, they don’t always recreate the intimacy of traditional family gatherings. For those with loved ones that live within driving distance, consider taking the time to “zoom-by” (my bad pun on drive-by) to see your loved ones in person in a safe, socially distant environment. For those who live alone, this could certainly help make their holiday special.
3. Zoom
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- Okay, I chose to be basic with this one, but it’s an obvious alternative if you aren’t able to gather in person with loved ones this year. Here are a few ideas to help make your holiday Zoom parties a little more special – consider holiday bingo, scavenger hunts, or gingerbread wars!
4. Coordinating Activities
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- One tradition that my family holds steadfast is watching a movie on the evening of Christmas Day. While we won’t be able to have everyone together in the same room sharing a bowl of popcorn this year, we still plan to uphold the tradition with a virtual watch party. Consider coordinating activities such as a movie night using group chats (via text, GroupMe, etc.) to facilitate conversation and recreate the in-person environment.
5. Make the Most of Your Space
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- If it is safe for you to have an in-person get together (refer to the CDC’s guidelines here), get creative with your space to encourage social distancing. Garage gatherings have become quite popular this year (who knew we’d be willing to host guests in our garages)! Bundling up with blankets, space heaters, and hot chocolate can be a great way to make memories and stay comfortable if the outdoor elements are a factor in your area.
6. Everyone Eats at the “Kids Table” This Year
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- Another idea for in-person gatherings is to have a “kids table” for everyone this holiday season. Spreading out where everyone eats throughout different areas inside or outside of your home can help keep group numbers small while still allowing the entire family to get together.
7. This Year “Cash” Really is King
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- 2020 probably isn’t the best year for large gift exchanges as there are multiple touch points involved with ordering, wrapping, delivering, and exchanging packages. One of the common gift-giving debates in my family is whether or not to give an actual present, or to simply give cash or gift cards (especially for those pesky teenagers!).However, in 2020, giving cash or gift cards may the way to go as doing so could be in the recipient’s best health interest.
8. Wear Your Beard
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- Facemask designs have become more and more creative as the year has passed. Want to wear a beard as cool as Santa? No problem! Check out these Santa themed facemasks – these and other holiday masks allow you to show your holiday spirit while still doing your part in keeping others safe!
9. Check the Naughty List
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- If you plan to meet up with loved ones this holiday season, it may be wise to require everyone take a COVID test prior to the family gathering. This can help ensure that everyone is doing their part in making sure they aren’t on the “naughty list” and shouldn’t stay at home to ensure the larger group’s safety. Furthermore, set clear boundaries before the family gathering. If some aren’t adhering to the rules set before the party be prepared to ask them to leave or have to leave yourself.
10. Have a List and Check It Twice
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- The biggest emphasis to the holidays this year is to simply have a plan. Be deliberate in your holiday plans – the pandemic requires us to put extra thought into how we celebrate with loved ones, purchase gifts, or run to the grocery store for the holiday meal.
From all of us at Yeske Buie, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season full of memories with those most important to you (whatever they look like this year!). Make a list of your plans for this holiday season, check it twice, and don’t forget to Live Big with those you love!