Dr. Bonnie Eaker-Weil, author of Make Up, Don’t Break Up, renowned family therapist teaches us how to get psyched for a smaller “safer” Thanksgiving.

She asks: How many of you have had angst in the past of “going home” for the holidays?

Having a dreaded possible confrontation with your sister or teasing session with your older brother, or having to suck up to Aunt Julia! What I’m hearing NOW from patients, “those were the good old days”, “miss going back home due to not being able to!” because of covid.

Some tips To help us be grateful for those past Thanksgiving memories and BUILD on them, for a “safer”, smaller, but loving grateful one!!
1. You can PICK your “favorite” people as the guest list is limited (you can leave Aunt Julia out) without the guilt!!
2. Buy fun masks and have them for guests
3. Less fuss and muss for you with smaller gathering, a more relaxing holiday
4. Plate food before so no one touches food.
5. Politely ask people previous whereabouts and their health re: covid prevention beforehand
6. Connect with elderly, vulnerable, sick family or friends VIRTUALLY during the dinner by sending food by takeout for them and eat with them at the same time!!
7. Err on the side of caution, and if you have an elderly family PROTECT them with VIRTUAL connection instead
8. Use this opportunity to meet and eat with people who would be too far away at your table, do it VIRTUALLY!