The Holiday season is such a wonderful time of year!

Families come together to celebrate, share traditions, and create new memories. Laughter, love, and warmth fill the air. There's nothing quite like being surrounded by the people you love most in the world.

So, whether they live down the street or on the other side of the country, here are a few ways to stay connected with your loved ones and make the most of this holiday season!

Connecting with family who live far away

It doesn't have to be challenging to create a connection when family members live far away. And many seniors still suffer from loneliness and isolation. Here are a few tips on how to bridge the distance during the holidays:

1. Send a handwritten letter or card.

In today's digital world, we often communicate with our loved ones through text, email, and social media. While there's nothing wrong with this, there's something special about receiving a handwritten letter or card in the mail. It's a thoughtful way to let your loved ones know you're thinking of them, and it's a lovely keepsake for them to treasure.

Besides, it's a nice break from all the holiday bills and advertisements that tend to fill our mailboxes this time of year! If you need help with what to write, try sharing a memory of your favourite holiday or sharing what you're most grateful for this year.

2. Pick up the phone.

Sometimes, all you need is to hear your loved one's voice to feel connection and love. Pick up the phone and give them a call! Have a long chat and catch up on everything you've been doing. It'll feel like you're right there with them in no time.

If you're worried about long-distance charges, there are plenty of free calling apps available that can help you connect with your loved ones no matter where they are in the world. Do a quick search, find the best app for you, and give them a call!

3. Plan a video call.

If you can't be together in person, the next best thing is to see each other's faces! Schedule a video call using Skype, FaceTime, or another platform. This way, you can chat and see each other's reactions in real time. You may even want to plan to make a holiday meal together or open gifts at the same time!

This is an excellent way to connect with loved ones who live far away, or you don't get to see often. Connecting over video makes it feel like they're right there in the room with you and help to make the connection feel more personal.

4. Send a care package.

A care package is a great way to let your loved ones know you're thinking of them. You can fill it with their favourite treats, a cozy blanket or scarf, a festive mug, holiday decorations, and anything else you think they'll enjoy. It's a fun way to show you're thinking of them and make them feel loved from afar.

Our Holiday Seasonal Gift Box is the perfect way to show your loved ones you're thinking of them this holiday season. It includes mittens, candles, and so much more - everything your loved ones need to cozy up and enjoy the holidays!

5. Make a photo album or scrapbook.

Nothing brings back happy memories quite like photos! Put together a photo album or scrapbook full of your favourite memories together. You can also include handwritten notes, poems, or anything else that will make them smile. This is a gift they'll be sure to treasure for years to come.

To start, gather all the photos you can find and then get creative! If you need help figuring out where to start, there are plenty of tutorials and resources online that can help.

Connecting with family who live close

If your loved ones live close by, you are so fortunate! Here are some tips for maintaining connection and creating lasting memories:

1. Share recipes

One of the best ways to connect with your loved ones is through food. Share your favourite recipes with each other and take some time to make them together. It's a great way to spend quality time with your family and learn about their favourite flavours and ingredients. Plus, it's an excellent opportunity for them to pass down some of their cooking secrets!

If a kitchen is available, set up a time to rent or use one and make some cookies together! You could also bring some ingredients from home and cook a family meal.

2. Keep traditions alive

Whether it's decorating the Christmas tree together, making gingerbread houses, or watching the ball drop on New Year's Eve, traditions are a great way to connect with your loved ones. They're a way to create new memories and hold on to the past.

Are there any traditions you and your loved ones share? Work to keep them alive and pass them down to future generations. Together, create a new way for your family to observe these traditions.

4. Learn about each other

Sometimes, just sitting down and talking with your loved ones can be the best way to connect with them. Learn about their lives, their dreams, and anything else they want to share with you. You could get to know their friends and family better or ask about their hobbies.

Take some time to really listen and learn about them. It's an excellent way to stay connected and can help you understand each other on a deeper level.

5. Attend a local event

Each year, there are a ton of holiday events in Toronto. From the Santa Claus Parade to carolling in the Distillery District, to the Holiday Fair at Nathan Philips Square - there are plenty of opportunities for you and your family to get together and celebrate this festive season.

Whatever it is, attending a local event together is a great way to make new memories and connect.

Conclusion

At Alder & Owl, we know how important it is to stay connected with family connected with your loved ones during the holidays. With a little creativity and planning, you can make it a special and memorable time for everyone. So go ahead and spread some holiday cheer! Your loved ones will be so grateful you did.

What are your favourite ways to stay connected with your loved ones during the holidays? Share in the comments below!