Holidays in a Pandemic

The holidays will look a little different this year.

And that’s ok. Maybe it’s time we make new traditions. Every year we do Christmas the same way. Every Christmas Eve, we go out for dinner, get a bunch of cookies, then go home and watch National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Then we get up on Christmas, drive to brunch with my side of the family, and then drive to linner (lunch/dinner) with J’s side of the family.

It’s not bad, we have a good time and enjoy spending time with family, but it tires me out.

I’m a total introvert and all the people time means I need time to re-charge. Especially after having to play with every toy that all three nephews received. It was bad enough when there was just one nephew, multiple that by three and there’s about a million toys.

But the joy on their faces is worth it.

Last year we decided instead of giving gift cards to the adults in the family we would make a donation in their name. We asked they do the same for us. We don’t need additional stuff. And it ends up being a big gift card exchange. Instead, we purcahse a bunch of items off the animal care and control’s wishlist. At least the doggos in the shelter will get a good holiday treat.

So what will we do this year? I don’t know. Maybe we will stay home and watch all the Christmas movies. Maybe we will have a socially distanced family get together.

I’m not even sure if I will decorate this year. I love to decorate but I hate taking everything down. I don’t know why that part seems like so much more work! Plus, my Christmas tree spot now is home to the exercise bike. And my house doesn’t really have another good spot for the tree.

I may not be feeling very holiday-y this year. What holidays do you celebrate in December? Will you be decorating? How will you be celebrating? If you exchange gifts, do you still do it for all family members or just the kids? I want to know! Maybe one of you will inspire me to get in the holiday mood!