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This post is sponsored by Tranquility. All opinions are my own.
Well, I don't think any of us could have predicted what a crazy, historic year 2020 would turn out to be. Unprecedented, challenging, and memorable to say the least! Here in Washington state, we just entered a new round of lockdowns and are being asked not to hold any social gatherings indoors. Soooo needless to say, the holidays will look much different this year. Even if your state is still open, it's likely that you have family members or friends who aren't comfortable gathering. As we head into winter, I've been thinking a lot about the people I know who live alone, especially those that are older. I hope it's not too long before we can see them in person and give them a BIG hug...but in the meantime, I've been thinking about how we can spread some comfort and joy this Christmas season.
1. Gift a weighted blanket: I think a weighted blanket may just be the perfect holiday gift for 2020. It's the next-best-thing to a big, comforting hug! Weighted blankets apply deep calming pressure to help you rest and relax. According to Psychology Today, their soothing effects have many benefits including reduced anxiety and stress, falling asleep faster, and getting better sleep. I have a Tranquility weighted blanket and I love it both for sleeping under, and for getting cozy during the day. What I love about Tranquility is that they have come in different weights and styles, including cooling and temperature-balancing, so there’s a blanket to fit every preference. Tranquility weighted blankets start out at just $25 and can be purchased online at Target or Walmart. They are super soft, durable, and have a removable, machine washable cover. I'll be doing a giveaway on Instagram soon, so keep an eye out for that!
2. Take a drive to see the holiday lights: This is a fun holiday tradition that (thankfully) we don't have to give up this year. Make some hot cocoa, get the kids in the car, turn up the Christmas music, and drive around your neighborhood to see the best Christmas light displays. You could even plan ahead with your neighbors and friends to make this year extra-special. Let them know when you'll be driving by so they can come out on their front porch or wave through the windows. Make sure to return the favor: add some extra cheer to the front of your house this year, and if you know your friends will be driving by, try to do something special like putting a sign in the window with their kids' names.
3. Plan a holiday movie watch party: Try this idea if you're looking for a way to bridge the distance and connect with family members that you won't be seeing this Christmas. Plan to watch the same Christmas movie at the same time, then send each other photos! If you want to take it up a notch, you could even order the same Christmas jammies to wear, and plan to eat the same snacks. This would be a fun thing to do with cousins, grandparents, and the whole extended family.
4. Organize a front porch Christmas cookie exchange: Instead of gathering in-person for a Christmas party, try a Covid-friendly Christmas cookie exchange. Everyone bakes a few dozen of their favorite Christmas cookie, then packs them up in tins or boxes. On the same day, drop them off on each others' front porches, so everyone ends up with a variety of cute, yummy cookies to enjoy. You could even pack cookies carefully in a box and mail them to family that's farther away.
5. Open gifts together virtually: We may not be able to get together in-person for Christmas, but at least we can gather virtually. Zoom or FaceTime can make opening gifts a little more personal. After all, seeing the reaction when your loved ones open your gifts is part of the fun!
What other ideas do you have for keeping the holiday spirit alive in 2020? Wishing you and your family all the coziness and comfort.
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Great Post! You are sharing a wonderful post. Thanks and keep sharing.
I love how comfy and cozy this time of year makes me feel--especially under a weighted blanket! This year, my husband surprised me with kitchen cabinet refinishing. Merry Christmas to me!