Holiday Madness

I’ve said this before: I absolutely love the holidays, but it’s bittersweet when I think of the many who are no longer here to take it all in. Here we are almost two years in recovering from a virus that has brought so much turmoil and destruction, it has been heartbreaking. We’ve done the Zoom thing a year ago for the holidays, but where do we stand now with a vaccine, that some don’t want to take, some have taken, and that some are unsure of?

Do we, the immunocompromised community, flood to book airline tickets and get out there to see relatives and friends? Do I feel safe in this new world of constant disagreements? I don’t know, but I have to say I’m perfectly fine making a wonderful meal in the comfort of my home and hope for the best in 2022.

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So for those who absolutely must do what they have to do to be together at a dinner table with the comfort of loved ones, it is totally understandable. The anxiousness will be there because even in the presence of our loved ones, following simple instructions still leaves room for angst. So how to handle the relative that may not adhere to doing the right thing:

Wash your hands

Though clearance to travel and gather is a go, ensure everyone in close proximity washes their hands with soap and water after using the restroom, before touching food after being outside, after picking their nose... well, you get the picture. It’s absolutely unsettling that even before COVID-19, some adults were not doing this simple gesture.

Don’t pass your cold

Though excitement fills the air, there’s still a very aggressive virus in the midst. If you’re displaying any sniffles and what comes with a cold and the flu, then please reconsider gathering. I have to say, this also goes for the other attendees and the host as well. If people are already displaying signs of not feeling well, either they reconsider attending or cancel until everyone is up to par.

The number one rule in my household is to always remove shoes before entering the house. What’s the big deal? Well, tracking in dirt from the street with gum, dirt, sometimes bodily fluid at the bottom of a shoe is not appealing. I think 90% of my friends follow this and no one thinks otherwise to argue.

Have fun

Although the signs of the times to having a nice and comfortable family holiday seems a hassle with the do’s and don’ts it’s so very necessary, as we don’t want it to be our last. Once you and your crew have done the best in checking that I’s are dotted and the T’s are crossed, it is with hope everything will work out by just being mindful. I do hope the world changes back to normal, however, I think it’s safe to say this may be our new normal.

Cheers and Be Merry!

The time to fight is now, with integrity, grace, hope, and a smile….when you feel like it

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