On an atypical Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving will look a little different for me this year. I have a feeling that is the case for more folks as we continue to navigate this pandemic. I’m just curious how people are still finding ways to find some joy, celebrate and still make the holidays feel special as we simultaneously keep each other healthy and safe.

I feel very fortunate that I have my partner, Patrick, to celebrate Thanksgiving with. While we typically spend time with a group of 40ish loved ones out in the suburbs of Chicago, this year will look nothing like that. There are several high risk folks in our group, and everyone has their own set of boundaries and priorities. The question becomes … How will we make this upcoming Thursday feel special?

It’s all about the connection and the food. As a gesture of gratitude, Zen Yoga Garage (one of the yoga studios that I teach at), if gifting a deep fried turkey to all the teachers. I have never prepared a turkey in my life, so I’m super excited about this. We will meet for a turkey pick up and an outside socially distanced masks-on holiday toast. Community.

Patrick and I will cook sides of our liking at home. We are taking time and care to select recipes that we love and cook them together. There will be some FaceTimes and phone calls along the way. I may even get a little fancy for the occasion and leave all the yoga clothes in the closet. It’s the small things too.

This above scenario is far from perfect. And it’s not my ideal. It’s been a hard year that has demanded a lot of us for so many reasons. But I’m still committed to finding something that feels good.

I would LOVE to hear what others are doing. Please reach out with any tips and tricks that you are implementing to make this Thanksgiving your own.

How will you celebrate your atypical Thanksgiving?

Take care of each other and yourselves. Happy Thanksgiving.

In love, light + with gratitude,

Nicole