Giving Thanks
I love love love Thanksgiving! But like everything else in 2020, it will most likely look quite different this year, with different details to consider and decisions to make. But let's accept the moment we are in. After all, we have been learning (hopefully) the art of adapting and making the best we can out of many things - a valuable lesson overall.
Although it’s still a month away, I'm already looking forward to that special day of the year when gratitude is front and center. And while celebrations will be smaller and many families will be apart, that doesn't mean gratitude has to dim its light. You will be heartened to learn that with appropriate, creative, and simple strategies you can enjoy so many of the wonderful things Thanksgiving has to offer. So, I've put together a list of quarantine-friendly ways you can celebrate Thanksgiving by truly embracing the power of love, connection, and gratitude.
Send Thanksgiving Care Packages
Cook your favorite family recipe (that one that makes you think of mom) and head over to a neighbor or grandparent's house to deliver your dish! Pick someone who has to stay at home because they're high risk for COVID-19 complications and deliver your home cooked meal in a contact-free way. Add a note to let them know they aren't forgotten and just how grateful you are to have them in your life.
Plan a Shared Experience
No matter the distance, you can still feel close on the big day when you share some of the same rituals. Whether it be virtual or in-person, you can come up with various ways to connect. Everyone can light the same (or different) scented candle, or have your kids perform a song, or skit, or reading, or a Tik-Tok dance for all to witness. Maybe even plan “open and closing ceremonies” with a beautiful reading or piece of music. And then of course, the ritual of giving thanks - pick up the phone or get on Zoom and express to each other that for which we are most grateful.
And speaking of gratitude….
Start a Gratitude Journal
Guess what has been proven to improve resiliency and positive emotions? Gratitude. Write down 3 things every day for which you are grateful - starting today! Keep adding to it each day and read it on Thanksgiving. Invite others to do the same and read them aloud to each other at a planned time.
Create a Festive Space
If the gathering isn’t happening this year, you can still get festive by decorating your house with beautiful fall accents. Try some gourds, pumpkins, dried flowers, fall foliage garlands, and break out those seasonal throw pillows and blankets.
Replace the Word “Dinner”
Move what might have been an evening Thanksgiving dinner to brunch or lunch! This can be especially helpful for virtual Thanksgiving gatherings with varying time zones. And perhaps offer some more time to celebrate!
Send “Thank You" Cards - in the MAIL
Remember that?! It feels so good to get a piece of mail that isn’t junk, a bill, or a reminder of your upcoming auto service. And expressing thanks to loved ones who add meaning to your life is gratifying in so many ways both for the giver and receiver. Time it out so your card arrives just before Thanksgiving!
Yes, this pandemic holiday season may have its challenges, but whether you’re hosting a meal with family or keeping it low key this year, now is the perfect time to create new memories and traditions. With some practice and planning, your family can still put the “thanks” in Thanksgiving – and maybe even create a gratitude habit that will bring Thanksgiving “to life” in your home!