When we started this pandemic, most of us never considered that 9 months later we would still be keeping a safe distance from those outside our homes.  Have no fear, I have created a list of activities and accommodations to make the togetherness of the holidays shine through even if we can’t physically be together.

• Take it outside! If you live in a warm enough climate or the weather is semi-manageable, find a place near you to meet for a socially-distanced potluck style meal.  Everyone can bring their favorite holiday side dish and spend a little time together eating and enjoying the outdoors. I know the forest preserves near me have fireplaces in their picnic shelters, maybe yours do too.
• Make a craft together. Find a craft that everyone can manage and either send little supply kits or send a supply list ahead of time. You could make them together on a video call or each person makes the craft and you can share photos with each other via email or social media.
• Share family recipes. Are you going to miss Aunt Marjorie’s pumpkin pie this year? Have her send you the recipe. You can make it and she’ll be with you in spirit. You could also do a video call via Zoom or FaceTime and make it together.
• Play a game virtually. Scavenger hunts, Dance parties, Kahoot!, oh my! There are so many options for joining your friends and family for virtual get togethers. Just set up a time and get playing via Zoom or any other video conferencing app.
• Draw Together. Drawing is such a great way to bond. Young Rembrandts has you covered with 60 minute on demand lessons. They also have short 2 minute How to Draw videos on their YouTube channel for a quick activity to keep the kiddos busy while you cook.
• Have those conversations virtually. Whether it’s the pre-dinner ritual of saying grace or sharing gratitudes, fighting over whose football team is better or discussing current life events, we can still do those things together via video calls. There are lots of free options for meeting over the distance.

However your family celebrations look this year, keep safety and health at the top of your list and focus on feelings of love, community and hope for togetherness next year.