Christmas Eve is usually full. We go from one family’s house to another. It’s silly and loud and busy. It’s really lovely and it is nothing like the Christmas Eve we had this year.

Today was quiet. We sang carols at my grandparents and went for a hike. My 18 month old son and I sat at the edge of a quarry listening to our echoes.

Different does not mean bad.

This whole year was an opportunity to reimagine how our days can be spent. Our celebration can be small. We’re still family even if we don’t spend time the way we used to. There’s something beautiful in that.

Happy Holidays to you and yours!