Holiday Ideas

The turkey leftovers are gone and holiday wreaths are up. This has been a tough year for everyone, so let's talk about holiday gift-giving. Usually we have all begun stressing over gifts by now. What do I get my boss? Last year my neighbor gave me a fruit basket - do I need to get her something? The normal stress of the season has been taken up a notch with Covid and all its terrible repercussions.

Stop. Just stop. None of us has the same expectations as last year and most of us are now grateful for the simple things. I hope you all are doing well and I wish for you health over the next few months. Give yourself some grace. If you cannot afford the normal gifts, it's ok. Here are some ideas for low-cost (or no-cost) presents.

Give of your time. Know someone who is busy or can't get out? Give them a hand made certificate for three trips to the grocery store, or a run to the vet. Call an old friend or family member you haven't spoken to in awhile and just listen. Look up community giving activities like food or coat giveaways and help advertise/promote them. Baking cookies? Drop some of those off at your nearest animal shelter - those workers are never appreciated enough!

Give a subscription - and set it up! This is especially helpful for those of us who are not technically savvy. Maybe a grandparent wants to see the grandbaby on zoom but can't get the account set up. Have it ready to go with a year's membership. Know a gardener? Get an annual subscription to Gardeners' World. For those who struggle getting out, pay for a year's membership to Instacart so they can get groceries or even prescriptions delivered without a fee!

What about those last minute people or groups like your work team? Make a one-time donation to your favorite charity (no amount is too small) from the department or all your neighbors. Have a stack of cards which say inside "A holiday donation has been made to..." This advertises and gives to the charity while doubling as a gift. Win - win! 

Lastly, if you are struggling physically, emotionally or financially, give yourself permission to let gifts go this year. There will be other opportunities. Take care of yourself. Believe in yourself. At a time when we are all worried and may feel alone, you are not alone. Below are a few sites I found helpful for coping through the holidays. If you have a great link or gift suggestion, please add it to the comments below. Stay safe and healthy!

Grief.com — – Grief & The Holidays

Stress, depression and the holidays: Tips for coping - Mayo Clinic