HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

This year the old saying “Home for the Holidays” takes on a whole new meaning. While most holiday traditions will be celebrated, some may have to be put on the back burner for next year. Here was our take on the newest holiday additions, maybe it’s time to make some new traditions;

Zoom Christmas Morning – While this might not be the same as the in-person version, this tradition can still be celebrated thanks to Zoom!

Make a holiday playlist to share with Friends and Family – Not everyone has those magical disc jockey skills, perhaps this is your secret talent, share your favorite holiday songs by creating a playlist on Spotify.

Holiday Scavenger Hunt – This is the perfect way to get into the spirit. Invite friends, family, or neighbors to play along. With endless fun décor, the Holidays are the perfect time for a scavenger hunt. This fun game can be played on foot or in the car and is an ideal way to enjoy friends and fun while socially distancing.

Secret Santa Gift Exchange – Everyone enjoys a good Secret Santa gift exchange, no need to cancel it this year, host a Virtual Secret Santa Party! Plan it early, you can pick names using a gift exchange generator, have everyone deliver or mail presents, and wait to open gifts together at the virtual party. Mix it up with an ugly sweater competition.

Drive-thru Holiday Party – Make your get together this holiday season a drive-thru edition. Offer stations with gift bags, appetizers, hot cocoa, and mocktails to grab from the car so guests can enjoy along the way.

IMPRESS YOUR GUESTS THIS YEAR
Did you see those mouthwatering, not to mention artistic loaves of bread cross your social media feed? Hone in on your baking skills and sign up for the Sourdough 101 Course. Enjoy this new craft in your culinary kitchen at Metropolis which replete with professional-grade Bosch/Miele appliances, large open workspaces, and under-cabinet task lighting.

Artisanal loaves make great gifts and will be the highlight of your holiday meal. Breaking bread this Holiday Season will be more memorable with your own homemade loaf.

GIVE BACK DURING THE HOLIDAYS
This Season more than ever, people need a little extra help. Whether through donations or volunteering your time, ‘tis the season of giving back. There are several ways to help and get involved.

Be an elf this season.
Select USPS postal branches participate in Operation Santa. This program provides gifts to thousands of children. Most letters ask for toys and games. Some ask for basic necessities. Some ask for help for themselves and their loved ones. You can find a participating postal branch by visiting, USPS Operation Santa®

Give an animal the gift of a forever home.
With so many homeless and jobless this year there are pet owners who need help with pet expenses and pets that need to be adopted. By adopting a pet this holiday season, you can give an animal in need a loving home and surprise your family with a brand new (totally lovable) family member. Contact the Downtown Dog Rescue, they rescue dogs and provide services for low-income pet owners in underserved communities in Los Angeles County.

Adopt-A-Family in Southern California.
The Salvation Army has a holiday program designed to assist families who are in crisis as a result of unemployment, homelessness, medical issues, or other difficult circumstances, and who otherwise wouldn’t have the resources to celebrate the holidays. Families who are adopted are provided with food, clothing, and gifts from their sponsors.