| How is it December… who did this?!? Between the holiday closures and the quick pace of this past month, it felt like we blinked and it was over. With three program closure days in November, and three again in December, I know how challenging that change in schedule can be for caregivers juggling a hundred things at once. That’s why I’m especially proud that this month, we’re once again offering three free Saturday respite days as a holiday gift to caregivers: a gift of time.
I love the decorations, the music, the traditions, and the moments of family time that come with this season. And like so many people, I also feel that familiar pang of missing the ones who aren’t here anymore. A full table can still hold an empty chair- the one once filled by someone we loved deeply, or simply someone we always assumed would be there. Whether because of death, distance, or life’s unexpected turns, it’s impossible not to notice who is missing.
For many caregivers, the holidays bring this complicated mix of gratitude and grief, joy and exhaustion. And sometimes asking for help is just plain awkward or tough to do. Responding to “what do you want?” can be complex enough to answer, right? Add caregiving into the mix and your “wish list” becomes a mile long…but, it’s filled with things like rest, support, connection, and relief, not candles or sweaters.
So here’s my encouragement: say what you need. Don’t know who to say it to? Tell Nerely, Jean, Kim, me; anyone on our team. Practice asking for what could help you this season (and beyond) with us. That’s what our circles- our programs, our support groups, our community- are meant for. Share ideas. Ask questions. Someone might know just the resource you need…or even have a gift card for that massage you’ve been secretly hoping for.
Some simple examples: Do you miss reading the morning news? We’ll help you get signed up for the library’s free digital newspapers, magazines, and books. Struggling to keep up with grocery runs? We can walk you through free or low-cost delivery programs to take one thing off your list. The point is: you don’t have to carry everything alone. Say it, write it, express it. Or just mumble off your thoughts and we will translate them for you, we are great at that!
And if you need a little inspiration, scroll down to the ‘Caregiver Support’ section in this email for caregiver gift guides and tips for the holidays. They’re not about just buying more things, but rather about how you can breathe a little easier. Because at the end of the day, this season isn’t about gifts at all. It’s about love. It’s about grabbing the person you cherish and holding onto another holiday together. And if someone you love isn’t here this year, I hope you find comfort in remembering the laughter, the little things, the silly moments that brought joy.
Emotional support can be the greatest gift of all, and we’re here to help you receive it aplenty! |
