Are you a hugger?

I am. I really miss saying hello with a hug. I am sad that now people think twice before what would have been a casual embrace. And I am very worried about what this means for our children.

But I don’t want this to be a depressing message. Many things are still the same, like our cat Peppa finding her spot beneath the tree.

And the chocolate-chip shortbread cookies I make year after year, because they are so easy, I don’t have to think much about holiday baking. Now, I realize that I really have too much to think about, as I should have told you about the recipe much earlier so you actually had time to make it!

Christmas has felt a little weird to me ever since the divorce and our son started alternating homes for the holidays, but whenever I got down about it, I would just turn my attention to him and tell myself that if he wasn’t sad, then I shouldn’t be, either. I would also remind myself that many people have professions that make them unable to spend the holidays with their children.

Of course, it’s perfectly acceptable to feel whatever you’re feeling, but a change of perspective really can do wonders. And so today, as I find myself alone on Christmas Eve (with presents to wrap last minute), I am remembering all of you and that each of you may have your own feelings about why this holiday is “weird” and that we really aren’t all that different at heart, despite our own circumstances.

Speaking of changing perspectives, a change of scenery–particularly with people who love you–is potent medicine. Part of being OK with this weird Christmas is the fact that we spent Thanksgiving with family in Florida. Lots and lots of hugging. Cuban hugging!

Nature, too, offers its own healing embrace. When you grow up in Miami, you never go to the beach in the off season. Now as an adult, I felt delirious, childlike excitement to discover that this is what you can enjoy in November on Key Biscayne:

From pine trees to palm trees, perspective really is everything.

Hope your holidays are as warm and embracing as they can be.