Ask Aunt B

Dear Aunt B,

Thanksgiving is right around the corner. Every year I have complained about being expected to go to my family and my husband’s family and wanting to have my own Thanksgiving. Well, here it is and I am very sad. I don’t know how to make this special and I really miss my family.

Thanksgiving not the same

Dear Thanksgiving not the same,

Everything in the last few months has not been the same and it doesn’t look like that might change for a while.

Maybe it is time to start some new traditions. What were the things you loved about Thanksgivings of the past? Implement all of them into your new celebration. What about the food? What are the foods you love for Thanksgiving? Have them all. You can start your healthier eating plan on Friday, because Black Friday won’t be the same either. I have never shopped on the day after Thanksgiving but from what I have heard, social distancing wasn’t any part of the experience.

What are some ways you can connect with your family and friends in new ways? If you have a smart phone you are in luck. I am in shock with all the ways you can now have video with our phones. There is Zoom, Facetime, Messenger and I am sure many I don’t know about. Alexa is a good option if both sides have the Alexa Show. But if all these fail, the good old telephone smart or not still makes great connections. Take time to call all of those you love on this special day. What about writing a letter to your loved ones? You know that time when you have just eaten and can’t quite think about the walk I am about to mention? Take a bit of time and write a few notes to people not with you. Maybe buy some cards and write messages of thanks and love with the people who are sharing your day.

What other things might you do to make this day special? My family has gone around the table after our meal and each stated something we are thankful for. It sometimes starts out superficial but I am always blessed by how deep the thanks goes.

Get outside and go for a walk. Fresh air is so good for us and the exercise isn’t bad either. Play some games. Watch some sports or a movie. Relax and enjoy your day as best you can.

If you find yourself alone, keep busy or contemplate past good Thanksgivings or spend some time in contemplation of how you might change and be with others this next year unless it is just what you want. I send you love and peace through my heart. I know, I know, that sounds so weird but I really do.

All my love and thanks for you,

Love, Aunt B

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