With public health officials cautioning against travel and large gatherings, many of us may find ourselves spending the holiday season alone this year. But a solo celebration need not be a dour affair. Read on to discover how to light up your Christmas, even without a merry group of revelers to join you.
Silent Night By Sandra Lane
T
his Christmas will definitely be different from Christmases in previous years. The corona virus has changed our lives and our customs. Many of us will be spending Christmas alone this year because of the risk in traveling and becoming exposed to the virus. The usual Christmas parties at churches and various organizations will be considered off limits to those who want to preserve their health and avoid the terrible effects of this disease. However, all is not lost. It’s still possible to have a meaningful and joyful Christmas although you may be celebrating alone or with just your immediate family. Decorations can still be put up throughout the home and
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TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE
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DECEMBER 2020
outside, if desired. It’s fun to pull out decorations that haven’t been seen in a long time. Some people even have ornaments saved from their childhood that evoke happy memories of Christmases past. Putting a very small Christmas tree with a few lights on a table can boost spirits and inspire some happy feelings. And don’t forget to hang your stocking somewhere. I even have stockings for some of my cats. Mailing Christmas cards seems to be decreasing in popularity. Years ago, I can recall spending most of December addressing cards and mailing them out, hoping I had not forgotten anyone. And, the cost was staggering. Now, I do the easy thing – I send electronic Christmas cards online to my complete list all in one fell swoop. And the cost is very minimal. I pay $20 a year for cards created for any
Holiday e-cards • Jacquielawson.com – $20/year for all occasions (also offer games, puzzles, advent calendars) • Americangreetings.com – $20/year for all occasions • 123 Greetings.com – Free for all occasions • Bluemountain.com – $20/year for Hanukkah cards and others
occasion. (See adjoining box.) I’m also going to purchase one of the online advent calendars to play around with. I always enjoy the puzzles and other features included. This year, I will definitely miss the Christmas Eve service at my church and getting together with friends for Christmas dinner. However, I plan to visit with friends by way of Zoom or Skype.
