There is no doubt that 2020 has been a strange and stressful year. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we live our lives and has forced us to change our routines almost overnight. Some people have embraced our new temporary way of life, whereas others have struggled. However, time continues to pass by and the world is managing to get through it in its own way, so whether you like it or not, Christmas is coming!
With all the difficulties we have faced this year, Christmas is a time that many of us, especially our children, will be looking forward to and it should be something we as adults and parents, should try to be excited for too. It may seem early to start planning Christmas gifts, but there is no such thing as being too prepared and due to the events of this year, there are most likely a few extras you may have added onto your list.
To make sure you don’t leave anyone out this Christmas, here are the things, people and the gifts that ought to be on your list.
Technology
Technology has been extremely helpful during the pandemic. People have been able to use technology to keep fit, entertain themselves and their children and continue to work from home. Another way people have used technology is to keep in touch with friends and family during lockdown. Speaking to the family through a screen is a great way to catch up, stay in touch and reconnect. This is especially so if you have growing children that loved ones don’t want to miss out on or relatives that live abroad, alone or in care homes.
We cannot predict what Christmas will be like this year, but to make sure that your family and friends feel connected, you should definitely consider purchasing video calling technology for your loved ones in order to stay in touch with them throughout the winter.
Kids
Whether you have your own children or have children in your family, you should be keeping them at the top of your list this Christmas. Many children have not been given enough credit during the pandemic. Even though staying at home and away from school for months sounds great, it can get boring and stressful, especially for a child who cannot escape, see their friends in person and has to learn how to self-motivate themselves inside their own home. Older children have had to deal with the stress of their exams being affected due to the virus, which may have altered or delayed their plans for the future. The children you are close to have been through a lot, so make sure you treat them this Christmas.
Food
Christmas is a time for giving, and a great way to give back to the people around you is through food. If you love to cook or bake, dropping a meal or a fresh batch of cookies to neighbours, friends or family can mean a lot on a cold winter’s day, especially if they are super busy with work and other commitments. Another way you can give back using food is by giving to the homeless this Christmas. Not many people have thought about taking care of the homeless during this time, but this winter, it will be more important than ever to give to vulnerable people in the form of food or warm clothing. If you don’t have the time, resources or know of any people in need personally, then you can make donations or volunteer through charities.
Your Colleagues
The stress of working from home, holding on to a job or having to deal with a reduction in pay or job loss has been something that has hit thousands of us hard during the pandemic. If you have been struggling to deal with changes in your work life, then it is likely that your colleagues have been going through a difficult time too. This Christmas, make sure that you don’t forget about treating your colleagues or ex-colleagues to a gift. It doesn’t have to be spectacular, just something that will put a smile on their face. For example, Morse Toad has a great selection of personalised gifts that would make perfect funny secret Santa gifts this Christmas. From photos to chocolate, here you can buy great quality items that you can personally hand over or send straight to their door.
If you’re a dedicated crafter or just want to give something personalised this Christmas, why not try giving handmade accessories using agate beads and gemstones? In many cultures, agate holds many symbolic meanings and purposes, including healing, balancing emotions, and easing anxieties. The year 2020 has been a harrowing ride for everyone, and your work friends could use a gift that gives them comfort and reminds them that someone cares.
There is no guarantee that things will be normal this Christmas, which makes the task of purchasing your loved one’s gifts even more important than ever. A small gift can mean a lot to a lonely person, and a present that manages to bring people together through technology can make someone’s Christmas special. Planning in advance will help you cover everything and will make the people around you smile in return.
*Collaborative post
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