In this season of giving, we’re expanding our usual ideas about generosity, which seems fitting given the state of the world. While we’re looking forward to exchanging gifts with family and friends, we’re also thinking about how we can spread cheer and goodwill in our community by giving of ourselves and taking time to let others know they are valued. To that end, we’ve created a printable Advent calendar that encourages children to do “a little something extra” for others. And we’re highlighting activities that bring us together, whether in person or virtually, so this season will have as much heart and soul as we all need and deserve.
*This post contains Amazon affiliate links. Please see full disclosure below. All opinions remain our own.
If ever there was a time to practice a “less is more” approach, this is the year. Though we will miss our large family gathering, it’s important to focus on the people who are present, even as we send love to those who are not. We’re planning to slow down and fill our precious time with the people we love, doing old-fashioned holiday activities that bring joy. Our kids helped to create this year’s Advent calendar and they’re quite eager to complete each day’s giving activity. Decorating for Christmas will have special meaning as our homes have become our sanctuary. Hot chocolate in front of the fire, and family game and movie nights are joyful ways of savoring this season of giving.
This year’s Advent calendar is about the joy of giving to others. It reminds our children (and us) that thoughtful words and gestures can brighten another’s day and fill our heart. We have purposely left several tags blank so you can add your own ideas. Simply print and cut out the tags, then slip them into your Advent calendar.
To print, click HERE.
We give ourselves wiggle room to change up the menu and format at Christmas. Some years we host a buffet lunch. Others we have a formal dinner in the early evening. This year, it’s going to be a casual family affair with make-ahead dishes that ease pressure on the cook and will allow us a Zoom visit while eating. We support local farms every year by purchasing their excellent pies and bread. The rest of the menu is easy to manage on Christmas day. Some of our favorite sites for reliable recipes are Saveur, Fine Cooking, and Bon Appetit.
Mixing, rolling, baking, icing, and best of all, eating, who doesn’t love Christmas cookies? There’s an infinite variety and no shortage of great recipes to be found on Pinterest or in your favorite cookbooks. The cookies below are easy to make and kid approved because they taste delicious and let little ones express their artistic side. Since we’ve become experts at Zoom baking sessions, which are quite fun, we can actually bake with grandmother. Try it!
How has the pandemic changed your traditions this holiday season? Have you made alternate ~ hopefully joyful ~ plans? Please share with us in the comments below!
Follow along on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest, for more New England flair!
No Comments