The holidays are looking quite different due to Covid. Whereas we’re used to togetherness and opportunities to reflect on all the past year has brought and all for which we have to be grateful, this year we’re forced (or at least encouraged) to stay away from family and loved ones. This has stirred a bittersweetness, a longing for tradition, for pastimes when we could celebrate in a home with relatives from all over the country and world across multiple generations. Yet, as true in any time of adversity, this peculiar situation offers us a gentle reminder to go within and appreciate all we do have. Because, though our current world may seem dismal, we really do have so very much for which to be grateful.

The past 9 or so months have been a rollercoaster. Springtime was intense; we weren’t ready for a pandemic to hit. Then as summer rolled through we let down our guards a bit. Then fall has raged havoc again. And as we near winter, I feel we’re coming to terms with the reality that the pandemic isn’t going away anytime soon. Accepting this allows us to be more in the here and now. Now we’re more emotionally and mentally prepared for a quiet, low-key holiday season.

Maybe you haven’t and won’t be able to take your annual vacation or make cookies with your grandma. Don’t let these hiccups overtake the holidays.

My family of 5 spent Thanksgiving at home, with carryout from Cafe Cortina (our favorite restaurant). We’ve never done this before. It was definitely uncommon, but we still enjoyed it. It’s all about your state of mind. If you’re a Grinch and grumpy, it’s going to be hard to find joy. So be positive. Appreciate a roof over your head. Appreciate every little miracle and glimmer of hope.

For my family, it’s marveling in Baby Rocco, my 9-month old, who is the greatest distraction and gift. Every day with him feels like Christmas.

A few suggestions to keep the holiday spirit alive, Covid style:

• Hand write letters to your family members. A handwritten note is so sentimental and something cherished by all. I plan to make this into a creative project for my kids.

• Video conference

• Deliver treats to your neighbors and loved ones. Even if we can’t celebrate all together, we can still make cookies and drop them off. This is a kid friendly, fun activity–a true feel-good tradition.

Take advantage of family friendly activities, while accepting they are different this year. Remember, we’re all in this together. We’re all working together to make sure people don’t get too sick. This mindset directly hints at the true purpose of the holidays–showing appreciation and care for others.