Sometimes it is hard to "let it go!"

This year we’ve all had to learn to let go of things -- it hasn’t always been easy. I’m the type where once I have a plan or an idea of how things are supposed to be locked into my brain, it’s hard for me to let go of those plans or see them unfold in a way that doesn't line up.

Christmas is now looking a lot different than normal. We are once again letting go of but another idea of how things are supposed to be. If I am being honest, I am kind of looking forward to a simple, little Christmas with just my kids and husband. We've never done our own Christmas before. But, I'm also a little sad about letting it go. We are missing our family and friends terribly right now. It’s been a year since we’ve been able to see our parents and grandparents. It’s been hard.

This sadness doesn’t mean I am not grateful for all we have. We’re healthy and (mostly) happy. We have food, shelter, and each other. It could be so much worse. Many people are dealing with so much hardship. They are having to let go of many things beyond what my family is letting go. My heart breaks for them.

I wanted to write this because I have realized that letting go is hard -- no matter what it is. The holidays can amplify this pain. It has been a hard year, and so many people are struggling right now. Try to reach out any way you can. It could be as simple as a phone call, a donation to a food bank, or checking in on a neighbor. The key is to spread the hope and love. We’re all in this together. Even though we may be physically alone or separated, we don't have to be truly alone. We have each other.

There is one thing that we are all probably happy and ready to say “let it go” to, and that is 2020! Let this year go already!