Long time readers know that I lost my father near Christmas 10 years ago. Since that time, I’ve gotten better at dealing with the loss (and unfortunately, other losses as well). I also have several tips to remember loved ones at the holidays, in case anyone is looking for ideas to help this holiday season.
Seeing as how this will be my tenth holiday season without my dad, I’ve encountered several ideas to remember loved ones at the holidays from a variety of sources. However, allow me to stress this piece of advice for anyone reading this: do what feels right for you. If these ideas make it harder, then don’t do them! Over time, you can find what works for you and your family.
Remember Loved Ones at the Holidays
- Make Family Recipes – Back in 2019, my father-in-law passed away and we started hosting the holidays. Now, my husband and I tend to mix family traditions by making recipes from both sides of the family! We’ll have his family’s fruit cake at Christmas and his family’s cheesepie at Thanksgiving! I make my grandma’s zucchini bread at Christmas and casseroles either at Thanksgiving and/or Christmas! Regardless, eating some of those foods help make the holidays seem jolly while giving a nod to those we miss.
- Hang a special decoration/ornament – I have several pieces of Christmas decor that either my grandma gave me before she died or just reminds me of her. It feels extra special to put those pieces out and it makes me feel closer to her!
- Light a candle – My extended family lights a candle for every person who has passed when they have a family reunion. Then, they have a moment of silence to remember them by after a lighting ceremony. It’s very touching.
- Start new family traditions – Sometimes, doing the same old things is comforting. Other times, it’s just too painful. Rather than driving to the Bristol Motor Speedway in Lights (like we used to do when I was young), my mom and I typically take the time to look at lights whenever we visit theme parks at Christmas. My mom and I also started the tradition of taking a trip around the time of the anniversary of my father’s death. It gives us something to look forward each year.
These are just some of the ways I remember loved ones at the holidays. What do you do?
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