“We don’t want to see you guys.”
My heart dropped like a lead fishing weight when Aunt Lora said this to us on the phone on Thanksgiving. I got choked up and a few silent tears. My husband, Ryan, was quiet as a mouse. We understood and were glad to get the elephant out of the room, but it still stung.
We are very close to my husband’s aunt and uncle, who are snowbirds in Fort Myers. We treasure seeing them every year when they come back down. But this year is different.
Since our family is up north, it was the first time we have dealt with the pain of not spending time with them. I realize this is slight versus what others are going through.
So, what can we do? It’s essential to take action to make yourself feel better. Focusing on what you can’t do this holiday season won’t solve anything; shifting your mindset to what you can do will. Here are some thoughts and ideas.
– Find those old holiday classic shows. I had recorded “Rudolph The Rednosed Reindeer.” Ryan said to me, “You can watch whatever you want.” I almost fell over. “Really, are you sure?” “Yes, I am sure.”
Guess what I put on? Yep, “Rudolph The Rednosed Reindeer.” He scuffled for a minute, trying to take back what he said, then settled into the old holiday classic, and we laughed. Interesting how even the side storyline with Kirby being a dentist is a real struggle for many. Follow your dreams!
– Get out from behind the computer. Yes, you! Too many people are still hanging out online. We are so lucky to live in Florida with restaurants, shops, beaches, boating, etc. What can you do outside, even if it’s taking a walk around Founders or down U.S. 1?
– And grab a friend! Some folks are scared to reach out. Take the initiative and invite someone to hang out with you. In addition, you may not be struggling, but you may know someone who is struggling, and inviting them out may help.
– Sit outside and think. Think about what you want out of your life. Write about it. Visualize and draw it. Make a list of goals for 2021. Positive thoughts toward the future will make you happy and not only help shift your mindset, but also help The Law of Attraction bring magic to you.
– Play with your pets. I am guilty of this. We have three dogs, and I get busy and forget to take a few minutes to hang with them. I learned pet sales are on the rise because people are home more. Maybe visiting a shelter, finding a new pet, or donating to an organization that helps pets will make you feel good!. I recommend The Florida Keys Wild Bird Center in Tavernier as a favorite place to visit and donate. Animals only take a few minutes to shift your mood.
I would love to share more tips and ideas, and you may have some too. But in closing, for this holiday season, one of the biggest tips is gratitude. Being grateful and saying, “Thank You,” makes everyone happy.
I appreciate it when I am out and about, and someone mentions my column. I never know who is reading the column and if it helps. I always say, “If I can help one person and they help another person, imagine…”
So, I thank you for reading and wish you the best in health, love and abundance. Happy Holidays!
