Peter Jaskiewicz

We may be two months away from the end of 2020, but that does not mean the ongoing pandemic will end before the start of 2021. As a result, we must prepare for smaller holiday gatherings to prevent the spread of COVID-19 among our families.

But, like Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other holidays around the end of the year will have modified celebrations to comply with health guidelines. However, this does not mean the holiday spirit will be taken away. There are ways to provide it to those you care for even in these gloomy times.

For Thanksgiving, consider preparing your family recipes for family and neighbors, especially if they are at higher risk of contracting COVID-19. Delivering food should be done while social distancing. While you will likely have a small dinner with those in your household, you could also hold a virtual dinner with friends and family. The same can be done with Christmas dinner.

The holidays do not have to be perfect. Try finding ways to celebrate without the usual traditions. For example, if you are on a strict budget, try to limit how much you spend. Instead, make homemade gifts rather than buying them or donate to a charity. You can also volunteer with local communities to spread holiday cheer to those who need it.

However, if you still want to send a specific present to a loved one but are unable to do so in person, Amazon can help you. They can send items as gifts when they are fulfilled by Amazon or from selected Amazon Merchants. But if you use this method, try to do it as soon as you can. Things can sell out quickly over the holidays.

Thanksgiving and the holiday season will be much different this year. But we must make the best of what we can do in these times. This year, we should step back and consider what really matters. It might not be the same feeling we have had in the past, but all we can do is hope for the best in these times.