Should I be saying, “Ho, ho, ho!” or “Bah Humbug!”?
A little of both, I suppose.
Here I am, 10+ years after my 27-year marriage ended — with no formal Xmas plans. (My ex gets to spend this holiday with our kids and I get Thanksgiving. I’ve tried to do blended celebrations, but haven’t been successful.)
I’m Jewish, so I can tell myself it doesn’t really matter. But being surrounded by families and couples this time of year can drag one down.
I used to visit my mother in Tucson on Xmas, which cheered her and made me feel like a good daughter. But she passed away in 2021.
Anyway, the purpose of this article isn’t to get you into a deep funk during what’s supposed to be the most joyous time of year.
After all, I’m sure thousands (if not millions) or people would be delighted to spend the holidays alone rather than dealing with family drama, stressful travel, sick relatives, or some other December buzz kills.
Some of the activities I’ve indulged in over the past decade include:
Hanging out with a fellow “holiday orphan” girlfriend for a fun brunch.
Traveling spontaneously to visit a friend and going with them to a festive dinner.
Talking via Facetime, ZOOM, or other video-centric app to friends and relatives.
Going out to a movie and for Chinese food solo. (And pre-gaming by re-watching one of my fave SNL shorts.)
Spending extra time working-out, which boosts endorphins and is a healthy alternative to Christmas cookies and booze.
Celebrating New Years Eve at a group gathering with great food and beverages.
Volunteering at a local food bank or soup kitchen is another terrific way to pass the time and connect with “givers” in your local community.
And, if you’re really bored, you can listen to all 10 of my podcast episodes.
This year, I’m simply embracing the fact that I’m single and not stressing over it. Things could be much worse. I could be engaged to Gerry Turner.
I am holding out hope that one year I will get kissed under the mistletoe.
But for now, I’ll settle for burning 500 calories and enjoying some hot & sour soup.
Fa la la!