We typically visit family, grandparents and great-grandparents during the holidays this year. I knew I’d be sad to miss them & our traditions, so we decided to do something different this year to mark the change.

We hopped in the car and drove 5 hours east non-stop, to stay in a cottage in a beautiful part of our state — a place I’ve only been once, 20 years ago.

I got treats — candies, cookies, Takis and more — stuff we don’t typically have around, to have around & enjoy.

We binge watched #QueensGambit & walked, sat around, tried to sleep in (the kids broke us!) and more.

I dusted off my dslr & tripod (!) to take photos of the fam. It’s been so long I practically forgot how to operate it or get myself ready for a pic. It came back, slowly, but surely— which means, grandparent gift of photos

Because we can’t cook with family, I ordered food & I may convince my partner to use paper plates just this once so none of us have to wash a dish for the first time in months.

None of this is what I want. But we’re hoping to make the most of a few days away from work/school— trying to break the routine & monotony as best we can. Trying to say, this year is different, next year will be with family again.

Solidarity for many of you who are breaking traditions — aiming for safer holidays. It’s not fun or ideal, but it will be temporary — a sacrifice for better times ahead.