Tips for a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving in 2020 probably isn’t what you had imagined a year ago. This year may look different than others, but you can still experience the holiday with a joyful spirit and grateful heart.  With a few adjustments and a little caution, this year’s holiday could still bring friends and family together in meaningful ways. At HistoryMaker Homes, we believe that connection is the key to a happier life — and we want you to share a happy (and safe) Thanksgiving with your loved ones from the comfort of your home. Here are a few ideas on how you can celebrate 

Host Dinner Outside: If you have family around your home in Houston or DFW, you may feel confident about the decision to have a small gathering. Get creative and have some fun serving dinner outside on your patio. Space out chairs for added safety, and incorporate fun, mini hand sanitizers into your placemat displays. If you love a good DIY project, make family face masks!

Cook (Virtually) Together: Even if you can’t physically be together, you can still connect and cook with your loved ones. Set up a video call with your phone, computer, or iPad on your kitchen island, and prepare your meal as you normally would while enjoying the virtual company of family with your favorite music in the background. Once the meal’s ready, keep the video call going while you enjoy it!

Dive Into Decor: If you’re preparing to enjoy a quiet dinner at home, make plans to decorate your table as you typically would. This will make the holiday feel as “normal” as possible, while keeping you busy with something you enjoy doing. Plus, with fewer places at the table to set up, you can focus on a beautiful centerpiece that lets you get creative and do something different. 

Practice Intentional Gratitude:  Let’s be honest. This year has been tough for so many. Gratitude may not feel top of mind when stressful times arise. Try reframing difficulties you may have experienced through a lens of gratitude. Research shows that consciously choosing to be grateful regularly helps us build resiliency. 

Treat Yourself: Adjusting to a new situation is not always easy, even if it’s just for the time being. You deserve time to relax and truly enjoy your holiday. This Thanksgiving, take a moment to treat yourself, whether that means indulging in an extra slice of pumpkin pie or saving the dishes for later so you can cozy up on the couch to enjoy a Thanksgiving movie marathon. 

From all of us at HistoryMaker Homes, we hope you have a happy and safe holiday!