Thank you. I’m 48, no children, and single (for much of my life) and thought it was only me who was on my own for the holidays sometimes. Your video & all those commenting made me feel so much better! Thank you & God bless everyone 🙏🏻
Oh you are one of many....marketing tries to portray the perfect holiday, perfect family, perfect relationships. But as we've all learned, life is messy because no one is perfect!!! So never think you are the only one who spends holidays alone- there are many of us, whether by choice or circumstances. I'm so happy to hear that you've loved the comments!! Welcome!!
I spent my first Christmas on my own last year in 60 years. I could have traveled to family that I don't see very often just to avoid being on my own but I decided to face it and save myself a lot of bother. I actually did most of the things you suggested to make the day special. It was probably the most peaceful and stress free Christmas I've ever had. Based on people's perception that it's unthinkable to be alone at Christmas, I feared it must be so !! Well I slayed that demon only to find it can actually be better and when all is said and done the day passes as quickly as any other. This year I will not be alone and I will enjoy that too. I totally agree that with the right planning and mindset you can make it a very special day!
Oh Anne, I LOVE, LOVE your story!! You slayed the dragon and found peach and happiness in making it a special day. I hope you have many more!!! Thank you for sharing. 💚🌲
I’m an introvert and love my own company. Holidays with my dogs is a wonderful thought. I have plenty of family locally but have no desire to spend time with them. Holidays are for people who see each other twice a year. Become a non conformist and don’t get sucked into excessive spending. I prefer celebrating Spring and Summer and longer days and day trips to Lake Erie in warmer weather, over overcast cold and crappy weather.
Well those summer trips seem quite memorable! Love it!! I'm with you. As I said to my son the other day (his wife has a huge family that all comes on Thanksgiving), celebrating Thanksgiving with 50 people who I don't know, really isn't a relaxing holiday for me. Great comment. Thank you.
Hi Sharri, I love these tips. I spent the bulk of my pre 48yo adult life solo and started buying myself a gift to open on Christmas day - a book, a journal, a new hand cream - whatever it was I'd been thinking about and wrapped it as if it was for a dear friend, bows and all. Then I'd open it on Christmas morning in bed with my cup of tea. It made me feel so happy and less upset if my day didn't go as planned, as Christmas often doesn't!
Another idea is to help serve others at a soup kitchen or similar. Helping others have a happy holiday brings joy to you and you aren't alone. In the United States many cities have "meet up" groups for singles. Thank you for sharing all your ideas.
Sharri I enjoy your videos very much. This video was wonderful with so many great suggestions!! After my divorce I didn't put up a tree or any decorations and it was the worst and I never did that again.Now I put my tree up add a few other decorations around. I make a point to order a few things for myself from my Amazon wish list. I wrap them as soon as they are delivered and put them under the tree as soon as it goes up. Christmas morning the tree lights go on, Christmas music on make a nice hot cup of coffee and just enjoy opening my presents!!! So much fun! Then I connect with family and friends with either a quick Merry Christmas phone call or texts. This works well for me and I plan to incorporate some of your great suggestions. Wishing US ALL Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Holidays!☺️ Remember "LIFE is a Special Occasion" each and every day!!! ❤️
My advice is to be ready for the main days so you wake up with a plan. Have your home clean and a special outfit ready. Sort your entertainment such as books and holiday movies. Whatever foods say celebration to you, have them ready so the only time spent preparing (and cleaning up!) is time you want to spend. Lay a beautiful table with flowers in front of your favorite movie. I always start the day with a treat so I look forward. I also try to do one new thing each year, not necessarily on the day, to make this holiday different. Above all, if I start to get sad, I remember it's just a day and have the tools to distract myself. Pretty soon, my joy returns.
I love this! I always decorate and plan the day, but you shared some new elements I will try. A special outfit...well, guess that means no sweats! Ha! And I love the idea of setting my table; I mean, why not use my Christmas china when I love it so? Who says I must have a crowd to enjoy it? Thank you.
@@dking1362 I'm with you in that I love crystal and china. Sometimes I think of buying a special piece for my solo holiday. eBay and thrift stores often have 1 or 2 pieces for sale when others are looking for sets of 8. I find it fun to mix up my table each year. I have a table that lets me look outside and watch the birds. So relaxing. On the outfit, I try to do elegant sweats. LOL Whatever it is that makes you feel special.
@@kristinb5121 Ooh, I love the idea of buying just a single set or intentionally mismatched ones. Thrifting is so fun, but these days I mostly look since I really don't need more "stuff." But it would be such fun to hunt for a special piece! "Elegant sweats" - love it! I have a closet full of clothes I rarely wear anymore. Whenever I wear something nice I seem to ruin it with all my crafting, so comfort usually rules at home. . However, I like the idea of making a bit of extra effort - jewelry and makeup. I have been thinking about putting in a little "oasis" in any backyard. All my plants are currently up against the house where I can't see or enjoy them. My yard is small, but a small landscaped island with a bird feeder, bird bath, and a few perennials would really be enjoyable. Maybe it is a good project to research/design on Thanksgiving! Thank you for sharing...I think we could be friends!
Thank you so much for all of these heartfelt ideas. This is truly a gift to others feeling lonely. Beautiful thoughts and ideas which have peaked my curiosity. Blessings for the holidays and all year. Like the pastor reminded us today, Jesus is the reason for the season.
I love splurging on a special advent calendar so I start each day with a little surprise. I usually get one that relates to my hobby or something I collect.
I find splitting the day up really helps so you have segments for things,maybe listening to an online church service and remembering being grateful for everything l have and the people l do have in my life, then cooking. After eating a lovely film,followed by a stroll around my neighbour head giving marks out of 10 for best decorated houses. Back home for tea and cake/ mince pies.After,This time l find the hardest as it goes dark and can feel the loneliest so it’s helpful if you can someone, if not l might watch another film,seeing others together can be helpful.A fairly early night and the day is done. I always decorate my home as l love doing it and so l put up my decorations early so l enjoy them to the full. I like to buy special scented soap and fun Christmas towels and tea towels and an advent candle. All these things really make a different pace to me. Thanks for sharing your ideas…..
Josee, you have great ideas!! Love the scented soap suggestions...scents inspire so many memories. Yes, it can be so very dark outside at this time of the year, so we have to cozy in and create warmth inside our homes. thank you for the ideas!!
Yes - I find walks on Christmas are always peaceful (few people out and about), pretty with the decorations, and I feel better after the exercise. I like your idea of segments.
I just came across your vlog and find your suggestions very helpful. My husband died suddenly five years ago, and the holidays have not been the same. I’ve spent the Christmas holiday with my daughter’s family, but that may not happen this year so thank you.
So good to hear Kathy. I'm so sorry for the loss of your husband. Holidays are especially hard when someone we have loved is no longer sharing it with us. You may have to create new rituals, new routines....maybe incorporate some with your daughter 's family and some with yourself- keep thinking and trying on ways to make this new chapter better...💚
I am so sorry for your loss. I find that although I will spend time with my children's families, they have other obligations/another side of the family to work around. it's often more than a single person, so I urge them to make those plans first are there're more people to coordinate and I have greater time flexibility. Unfortunately, that often means I am alone on the actual day. So I have learned that I need to plan a holiday that will give me joy and celebrate Christ's birth even if I am alone. Best to you.
I am quite familiar with those tears...but now that we know it might be hard, schedule up your days...not just in the house but outside. We can do this and as one of the other subscriber's said...Life is a special occasion, each and every day." So treat yourself, make yourself special. It sounds like you are doing all that!
I love your attitude. I used to hate Xmas because in my family of origin those holidays were pure hell. Exact opposite of love and kindness. But in my early adulthood I realized that my Xmas can be whatever I make of it. And so I started to create my ideal Xmas for myself. In my country the main event is the dinner and so I always make a special dinner for myself with music, candles and a dessert. I always get a real tree and use my favorite decorations. I even order a few gifts online and tick the "gift wrapping" box in the order so that I can open my own gifts underneath my tree :-) I also enjoy admiring my city all decorated and with lights on. I buy a hot chocolate or some naughty and sweet coffee drink and enjoy the atmosphere. I go to craft markets and events like that. Overall I'm absorbing the joys of the season with all my senses. There was one year when I was not in a good place mentally and financially and I decided not to "splurge" on a a Xmas tree. Worst decision ever. It made things even worse for me. So now I know better. I'm wishing you Sharri as well as others who read my comment a joyful and fun advent time and holidays. Xmas is what you make of it :-)
So many wonderful ideas! I never thought to check the gift wrap box when ordering online. I did the same as you and decided to not splurge on a tree and had the exact same sad experience. We'll never do that again. Thanks for the great share and ideas for us all!
I have also started having Christmas lights put on my house for the last 3 years. Always wanted them, never could afford them, but now I can. It makes me so happy to come home and see them the entire month of December!
@@kristinb5121 It IS fun! And it is simpler than I thought. I live in a single-story home, so it's just a straight line, a single window, and the arch over the garage. I pay a couple former students to do it - helps them, helps me. The timer turns them on/off automatically, and it was cheap, so they are always on when I come home since it gets dark so early. I smile every day!
Thank you, Sharri. It's just me and my adult son. I celebrate with a special meal for all our Jewish holidays. For Thanksgiving, my adult son doesn't care for turkey, so we'll roast a chicken with yams & and string beans. Of course, I'll bske a pumpkin and a pecan pie.
Loved this video about Christmas solo. Even if you have a partner or family and friends around, I think each of us deserves a little something that we we do just for us at the holiday - for me it's watching certain films and decorating that I do solo each year. Brilliant idea to return to the classroom to study design! It's rewarding to immerse yourself in something you love to do and not have the pressure to practice it professionally.
Movies and decorating- how wonderfully relaxing. You are so right, even with a house full of people, it's perfect to carve out some time for yourself. Love your comment.
We should love & care for ourselves as much as we love & take care of our loved ones . . How can we love others if we don't love ourselves first? It's not selfish or narcissistic to make nice meals for ourself, to decorate our spaces for ourselves & gift wrap gifts for ourselves. We shouldn't feel bad for being alone & although we may not be able to help feeling lonely at times, we can be grateful & joyous to be alive & to be able to experience different experiences. Completely agree on the idea of sensory pleasures.. flowers, candles, pillows & good food are uplifting & cozy.. we can also appreciate not having to rush through a bath, a meal or a cup of coffee. We can read good books, go for walks, watch the shows we enjoy, etc. Some of us never had the time to experiment with baking or cooking unusual dishes & that can be fun. Time for art, museums & hobbies. And helping people who are less fortunate can remind us to be more aware of what we do have to be grateful for. Life is different seasons & accepting the solo seasons is part of it. Most welcome & helpful video! ☺️
For me, it's not so much that I think it's SELFISH to love/care for myself. First, it's because as a single mom, there was rarely time nor money to do so. Also, it's because I neglected my needs for so long that I couldn't identify them nor even think how to change. I am thankful for internet info, church groups, and TH-cam videos like this that generously share ideas from people who have "been there."
@ I was a single mother from the time my children were little. Time & money are serious, difficult issues to deal with. It is incredibly hard to even identify what your own needs & desires are after being in a situation where you must put your children & work before yourself. My children are young adults now but I’m definitely still trying to figure out how to better understand & care for myself. My mother & grandmother were martyrs & so that’s why I often think to myself that I shouldn’t “be selfish” so for some of us, it’s about finding a balance between what we feel ok with & what we can or should do without. I hope that everyone can find the resources to help us on our path towards a more healthy life balance.
@@candicisco9666 My experience has been quite similar. I, too, got the message from early childhood that my needs didn't matter. I am (finally!) working on changing that perspective! Best to you.
I am a single senior…enjoyed your video very much. I decorate my apartment,do Christmas baking for others ,Christmas music and movies. Some of your suggestions are way beyond my financial ability.
Thank you for joining me!! As for my suggestions, if something appealed to you, explore how you can afford it...like a facial- could you make a lovely mixture at home with buyable ingredients (probably healthier!) I find it so fun to explore how to take an "expensive option" and find something similar that is affordable for us or something I can make. Thoughts?
Agree, I always do a tree, I love it, I'll pick large branches for a large pot to create the size tree I need, they've become so expensive, also they're always too big. Since being a mother I started buying myself a Christmas & birthday gift. They're sometimes small or not but I rarely get what I wish for or really need. It maybe my favourite hand cream I'm running low on or my favourite chocolates, clothing & I get the store to wrap so I can unwrap that morning. I really enjoy it & it feels very self nurturing & caring. I start decorations 1st Dec as do most of Australia I'm going to add an advent calendar now .. never had as a child my mother was not into Christmas. Thankyou for sharing Jane xo
Thank you for sharing Jane. I didn't know that in Australia it is common to put up your decorations early december. It seems to be getting earlier and earlier everywhere! I'm in London and the Christmas decorations are already up on the streets!
@@extraordinarywomennextchapter I know! its crazy! the Coles & Woolworths the US stores have it out now but most people I know and we have always started Dec 1st 🎄 Its too long otherwise & we do 12 days after Xmas, then trees down. When do you put your tree down?
Good day Sharri, thank you for your ideas for those who may be spending alone during the holidays. I have spent many times alone and I had put your ideas into practice already and it has helped. On another note I would love for you to put on your channel how you came about finding your home in Paris and the steps you went to obtaining it - especially if there any stipulation upon obtaining one. Love your show and I always look forward to seeing your channel.
So happy to hear you are trying on some of the ideas I shared. Let me know which you like best. Also, the Paris apartment process is in my book, which is scheduled to be released in January- right after the first of the year. Mostly though, you have to ask why you want to live in say Paris, and then you can get into the nitty gritty of buying (rather easy) and maintaining a second home in Paris or wherever (not so easy).
I like to plan a meal with a roast cornish hen and also find some special books to read during the holidays - not necessarily holiday themed. I also do a big pot of greens, red twig dogwood and red berries, along with fairy lights, on my porch. It makes me happy to come home to.
What a beautiful way to welcome yourself and others to your home! I love the idea and plan to incorporate it into my little entry area! Thank you for sharing. 💚
For Halloween & Thanksgiving, I have a small pumpkin on my dinning room table with a tan tablecloth and orange placemats. I also, get a large pumpkin for the front porch.
Delia also makes the best trifle I've ever eaten - it's called 'Caramelised Orange Trifle' - oh my God!!! Even if you're not particularly a fan of orange you will absolutely love this and people will be talking about it for months.
Hi Shari, just found your channel. I’ve been solo since 2012. I do all of the things you suggested. One of my favorite movies during the holidays is: ‘While You Were Sleeping’.
Some wonderful ideas here. I have struggled with the holidays over the past couple of decades - wanting to make good memories for my children, but being sad and lonely when they went to their father's for Christmas vacation week. Of course, it's not the best time to reach out to friends, either, as THEY have family to be with. I do better now, but it does take effort. First, I accept that I will have the "Christmas Cry" sometime in the month of December. It's a tradition I would love to be rid of, but it happens so I now accept there will be some sad feelings, deal with them, and then I'm fine. "Yes" to decor and candles! I also have been creating new ornaments to add to my tree every year. I have learned to make plans, as you suggest. I always have something to look forward to, maybe even a special phone call with a friend/family member I can't be with, maybe a new-release movie at the theater. I love, love your suggestion of an advent calendar - buying something for me but it's also a surprise! WIN! And making a playlist ahead of time - wise idea to combat the silence. Now I buy myself a gift, something that I want but wouldn't ordinarily purchase in the day-to-day. It's quite lovely - I always like what I receive! 😂
You are not alone...and maybe you have to just schedule in a good Christmas cry. I've been there and tried to stuff it down, which doesn't work very well. One of our lovely subscribers mentioned that when she purchases things for herself online, she checks the "this is a gift" box so whatever it is arrives wrapped and she puts it under her tree. I thought her idea was brilliant!! Join me in trying that one. 🎁
Not cupcakes but little sticky toffee puddings. www.deliaonline.com/recipes/collections/hot-puddings/little-sticky-toffee-puddings-with-pecan-toffee-sauce... absolutely incredible!!!
Sharri, thanks so much for the ideas! Sometimes you just have to kick yourself in the pants and DO some of them. I'm working on that part! Thanks again! 💗
Oh we all need those pep talks sometimes...I have to at times, look at myself in a mirror and ask, what are you letting yourself get so sad about?? You deserve to be happy and that's up to you! You'll make these upcoming holidays special, I just know it.
Thanks for an enjoyable and enlightening video. But I couldn’t possibly freeze those desserts because I would have no willpower, and would eat them before guests visited! 🤣
Hello Sharri, thank you very much for your suggestions. At least I will use my favourite dishes, cutleries and candle, which I usually use when my guests come to my place. I noticed your voice sounded different. Please do take care.
Oh I love that...another subscriber said "Life is a special occasion every day." Isn't that true? So pull out the dishes, the pretty cutlery and light the candles!! (My cold is finally over!!)
Sherri, I wish you the best and happiest Holiday season. I agree with all the positive things you have mentioned in this video, whether solo or with friends & family it should be joyous! I definitely think you could be an interior designer, because your Parisien apartment is just lovely & you had much to do with that great space!
I signed up for a certificate program in Interior Architecture - not a career direction but because it is one of my creative outlets!! Thank you and sending you many many joyous holiday moments!! 💚
Hi Sharri, Thank you for the tips. I especially like the idea of making and freezing some special meals and dessert ahead of time. I still love watching A Christmas Story and the first Home Alone. I love the movies before all the technology. I purchased a few things awhile ago and made a European style advent, so I will open a gift every weekend in December.
Love this ! Iv been alone a lot at the holidays and I do all kinds of stuff ! No 1 decorations are a must ! Christmas trees !! A must and pine candles a must ! I cook and make a big deal out of it ! My fav is fondue !! That way I can nibble though out the day ! Yes I injoyed all of your ideas
Oh....fondue! When my kids were little we had fondue every Christmas, and it was really special. The pot stopped working, was trashed, and haven't thought about it in years. Maybe THAT will be my special gift to myself this year! Thanks for the inspiration; I love your positive attitude!
I have been checking all day for your next video. Did I miss it somehow? I look so forward to them each week and have found them to be incredibly motivating in so many aspects of my life. No pressure if you aren’t planning to have one this week. I hope your cold is better and that you are on the mend. Take care
Oh we are just a little behind! I'm in London- going to visit my oldest granddaughter who is at the university of Edinburgh in Scotland for her birthday. Video should be out today!! Thank you!!
Holidays for some people are times of sadness, I know it because I’ve experienced due to family members lost their lives. However, Christmas for me is most important holiday because we all go to church together regardless of the pain we endured. Celebrating a holiday is about a personal choice. I like to decorate our apartment with at least color schemes. Thus, I don’t like many decorations because it’s too expensive and takes time. 🙏
Sharri, this is incredibly helpful information. As this is fresh and new for me this holiday season I have wondered how I would manage it with grace and joy. It’s not just the actual holidays that concerned me but all of the days surrounding them. With your suggestions in mind, I am stating to work on some ideas and holiday plans. I feel optimistic and actually a little excited. Thank you.
Thank you Shari for your great tips. I joined a Messianic congregation so now I celebrate the Biblical holiday feasts including Hanukkah (and Christmas)❣️🥰💕🙏🏻👑🎄🕎 I have enjoyed making beef bourgignon for Christmas and potatoe latkes for Hanukkah ❣️Also, visit a Messianic congregation in March where they celebrate Purim, the Feast of Esther, where they eat Hamantaschen Haman’s Ears‼️We also have a Thanksgiving feast at our Synagogue which is nice for those who don’t have family. God bless you❣️🥰💕🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻❤️
Whilst all this is sage advice, there's a huge difference between someone doing Christmas alone because they live at a distance from their family versus people who are 'elder orphans' (ie whose family are deceased) who sadly don't have the luxury of family being just a 'phone call away. And if you happen to be a singleton out of a group of friends who are all married, the three days of festive celebration can seem like a century.
You are so right...sometimes spending time with myself can be more enjoyable than with a group of coupled friends, which can sometimes make us feel lonely and even sad. Moderation I say!
I live alone but I always decorate the house for major holidays because it makes me happy.
I'm so happy (and impressed) that you decorate your home and why! Yes...what makes us happy is the question.
Thank you. I’m 48, no children, and single (for much of my life) and thought it was only me who was on my own for the holidays sometimes. Your video & all those commenting made me feel so much better! Thank you & God bless everyone 🙏🏻
Oh you are one of many....marketing tries to portray the perfect holiday, perfect family, perfect relationships. But as we've all learned, life is messy because no one is perfect!!! So never think you are the only one who spends holidays alone- there are many of us, whether by choice or circumstances. I'm so happy to hear that you've loved the comments!! Welcome!!
I spent my first Christmas on my own last year in 60 years. I could have traveled to family that I don't see very often just to avoid being on my own but I decided to face it and save myself a lot of bother. I actually did most of the things you suggested to make the day special. It was probably the most peaceful and stress free Christmas I've ever had. Based on people's perception that it's unthinkable to be alone at Christmas, I feared it must be so !! Well I slayed that demon only to find it can actually be better and when all is said and done the day passes as quickly as any other. This year I will not be alone and I will enjoy that too. I totally agree that with the right planning and mindset you can make it a very special day!
Oh Anne, I LOVE, LOVE your story!! You slayed the dragon and found peach and happiness in making it a special day. I hope you have many more!!! Thank you for sharing. 💚🌲
I’m an introvert and love my own company. Holidays with my dogs is a wonderful thought. I have plenty of family locally but have no desire to spend time with them. Holidays are for people who see each other twice a year. Become a non conformist and don’t get sucked into excessive spending. I prefer celebrating Spring and Summer and longer days and day trips to Lake Erie in warmer weather, over overcast cold and crappy weather.
Well those summer trips seem quite memorable! Love it!! I'm with you. As I said to my son the other day (his wife has a huge family that all comes on Thanksgiving), celebrating Thanksgiving with 50 people who I don't know, really isn't a relaxing holiday for me. Great comment. Thank you.
Hi Sharri, I love these tips. I spent the bulk of my pre 48yo adult life solo and started buying myself a gift to open on Christmas day - a book, a journal, a new hand cream - whatever it was I'd been thinking about and wrapped it as if it was for a dear friend, bows and all. Then I'd open it on Christmas morning in bed with my cup of tea. It made me feel so happy and less upset if my day didn't go as planned, as Christmas often doesn't!
I love your share...so beautifully explained. 💚
How lovely 😊
Another idea is to help serve others at a soup kitchen or similar. Helping others have a happy holiday brings joy to you and you aren't alone. In the United States many cities have "meet up" groups for singles. Thank you for sharing all your ideas.
Fantastic idea!!!
Sharri I enjoy your videos very much. This video was wonderful with so many great suggestions!!
After my divorce I didn't put up a tree or any decorations and it was the worst and I never did that again.Now I put my tree up add a few other decorations around. I make a point to order a few things for myself from my Amazon wish list. I wrap them as soon as they are delivered and put them under the tree as soon as it goes up. Christmas morning the tree lights go on, Christmas music on make a nice hot cup of coffee and just enjoy opening my presents!!! So much fun! Then I connect with family and friends with either a quick Merry Christmas phone call or texts. This works well for me and I plan to incorporate some of your great suggestions.
Wishing US ALL Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Holidays!☺️
Remember "LIFE is a Special Occasion" each and every day!!! ❤️
LOVE that saying... Life is a special occasion...so pull out the special outfits, china, decorations, and gifts- and celebrate YOU!
I'm loving this. I do something similar. I even make the effort and put my make up on and a nice outfit too.
My advice is to be ready for the main days so you wake up with a plan. Have your home clean and a special outfit ready. Sort your entertainment such as books and holiday movies. Whatever foods say celebration to you, have them ready so the only time spent preparing (and cleaning up!) is time you want to spend. Lay a beautiful table with flowers in front of your favorite movie. I always start the day with a treat so I look forward. I also try to do one new thing each year, not necessarily on the day, to make this holiday different. Above all, if I start to get sad, I remember it's just a day and have the tools to distract myself. Pretty soon, my joy returns.
Kristin, that was a beautiful comment. Thank you.
I love this! I always decorate and plan the day, but you shared some new elements I will try. A special outfit...well, guess that means no sweats! Ha! And I love the idea of setting my table; I mean, why not use my Christmas china when I love it so? Who says I must have a crowd to enjoy it? Thank you.
@@dking1362 I'm with you in that I love crystal and china. Sometimes I think of buying a special piece for my solo holiday. eBay and thrift stores often have 1 or 2 pieces for sale when others are looking for sets of 8. I find it fun to mix up my table each year. I have a table that lets me look outside and watch the birds. So relaxing. On the outfit, I try to do elegant sweats. LOL Whatever it is that makes you feel special.
@@kristinb5121 Ooh, I love the idea of buying just a single set or intentionally mismatched ones. Thrifting is so fun, but these days I mostly look since I really don't need more "stuff." But it would be such fun to hunt for a special piece! "Elegant sweats" - love it! I have a closet full of clothes I rarely wear anymore. Whenever I wear something nice I seem to ruin it with all my crafting, so comfort usually rules at home. . However, I like the idea of making a bit of extra effort - jewelry and makeup. I have been thinking about putting in a little "oasis" in any backyard. All my plants are currently up against the house where I can't see or enjoy them. My yard is small, but a small landscaped island with a bird feeder, bird bath, and a few perennials would really be enjoyable. Maybe it is a good project to research/design on Thanksgiving! Thank you for sharing...I think we could be friends!
@@dking1362 Add a few twirls in front of the tree in your put together outfit! We can't twirl in sweats!! 🎄
Thank you so much for all of these heartfelt ideas. This is truly a gift to others feeling lonely. Beautiful thoughts and ideas which have peaked my curiosity. Blessings for the holidays and all year. Like the pastor reminded us today, Jesus is the reason for the season.
So glad that you found some of my conversation helpful and yes...the reason for the season should not be forgotten. Blessed we are. 💚
I love splurging on a special advent calendar so I start each day with a little surprise. I usually get one that relates to my hobby or something I collect.
It sounds like you make your own advent calendar. How fun!!
I find splitting the day up really helps so you have segments for things,maybe listening to an online church service and remembering being grateful for everything l have and the people l do have in my life, then cooking. After eating a lovely film,followed by a stroll around my neighbour head giving marks out of 10 for best decorated houses. Back home for tea and cake/ mince pies.After,This time l find the hardest as it goes dark and can feel the loneliest so it’s helpful if you can someone, if not l might watch another film,seeing others together can be helpful.A fairly early night and the day is done.
I always decorate my home as l love doing it and so l put up my decorations early so l enjoy them to the full. I like to buy special scented soap and fun Christmas towels and tea towels and an advent candle. All these things really make a different pace to me. Thanks for sharing your ideas…..
Josee, you have great ideas!! Love the scented soap suggestions...scents inspire so many memories. Yes, it can be so very dark outside at this time of the year, so we have to cozy in and create warmth inside our homes. thank you for the ideas!!
Yes - I find walks on Christmas are always peaceful (few people out and about), pretty with the decorations, and I feel better after the exercise. I like your idea of segments.
Great tips. I always decorate for the holidays and cook , regardless if it’s for a family or for myself. It makes me happy.
It sounds like you know what makes you happy and then do it! Woo-hoo!!!
I just came across your vlog and find your suggestions very helpful. My husband died suddenly five years ago, and the holidays have not been the same. I’ve spent the Christmas holiday with my daughter’s family, but that may not happen this year so thank you.
So good to hear Kathy. I'm so sorry for the loss of your husband. Holidays are especially hard when someone we have loved is no longer sharing it with us. You may have to create new rituals, new routines....maybe incorporate some with your daughter 's family and some with yourself- keep thinking and trying on ways to make this new chapter better...💚
I am so sorry for your loss. I find that although I will spend time with my children's families, they have other obligations/another side of the family to work around. it's often more than a single person, so I urge them to make those plans first are there're more people to coordinate and I have greater time flexibility. Unfortunately, that often means I am alone on the actual day. So I have learned that I need to plan a holiday that will give me joy and celebrate Christ's birth even if I am alone. Best to you.
I’ve experienced quite a few holidays with tears and eventually turned those around. But you had some wonderful ideas I hadn’t thought of, thank you!
I am quite familiar with those tears...but now that we know it might be hard, schedule up your days...not just in the house but outside. We can do this and as one of the other subscriber's said...Life is a special occasion, each and every day." So treat yourself, make yourself special. It sounds like you are doing all that!
I love your attitude. I used to hate Xmas because in my family of origin those holidays were pure hell. Exact opposite of love and kindness. But in my early adulthood I realized that my Xmas can be whatever I make of it. And so I started to create my ideal Xmas for myself. In my country the main event is the dinner and so I always make a special dinner for myself with music, candles and a dessert. I always get a real tree and use my favorite decorations. I even order a few gifts online and tick the "gift wrapping" box in the order so that I can open my own gifts underneath my tree :-) I also enjoy admiring my city all decorated and with lights on. I buy a hot chocolate or some naughty and sweet coffee drink and enjoy the atmosphere. I go to craft markets and events like that. Overall I'm absorbing the joys of the season with all my senses. There was one year when I was not in a good place mentally and financially and I decided not to "splurge" on a a Xmas tree. Worst decision ever. It made things even worse for me. So now I know better. I'm wishing you Sharri as well as others who read my comment a joyful and fun advent time and holidays. Xmas is what you make of it :-)
So many wonderful ideas! I never thought to check the gift wrap box when ordering online. I did the same as you and decided to not splurge on a tree and had the exact same sad experience. We'll never do that again. Thanks for the great share and ideas for us all!
I have also started having Christmas lights put on my house for the last 3 years. Always wanted them, never could afford them, but now I can. It makes me so happy to come home and see them the entire month of December!
@@dking1362 That's so fun. I need to consider this. Driving up to see your house so festive must be wonderful.
@@kristinb5121 It IS fun! And it is simpler than I thought. I live in a single-story home, so it's just a straight line, a single window, and the arch over the garage. I pay a couple former students to do it - helps them, helps me. The timer turns them on/off automatically, and it was cheap, so they are always on when I come home since it gets dark so early. I smile every day!
Thank you, Sharri. It's just me and my adult son. I celebrate with a special meal for all our Jewish holidays. For Thanksgiving, my adult son doesn't care for turkey, so we'll roast a chicken with yams & and string beans. Of course, I'll bske a pumpkin and a pecan pie.
Latkes? THE best!!!
Dear Sharri, you are the sunshine.Thank you❤
Thank you for joining me!!
Loved this video about Christmas solo. Even if you have a partner or family and friends around, I think each of us deserves a little something that we we do just for us at the holiday - for me it's watching certain films and decorating that I do solo each year. Brilliant idea to return to the classroom to study design! It's rewarding to immerse yourself in something you love to do and not have the pressure to practice it professionally.
Movies and decorating- how wonderfully relaxing. You are so right, even with a house full of people, it's perfect to carve out some time for yourself. Love your comment.
We should love & care for ourselves as much as we love & take care of our loved ones . . How can we love others if we don't love ourselves first? It's not selfish or narcissistic to make nice meals for ourself, to decorate our spaces for ourselves & gift wrap gifts for ourselves. We shouldn't feel bad for being alone & although we may not be able to help feeling lonely at times, we can be grateful & joyous to be alive & to be able to experience different experiences. Completely agree on the idea of sensory pleasures.. flowers, candles, pillows & good food are uplifting & cozy.. we can also appreciate not having to rush through a bath, a meal or a cup of coffee. We can read good books, go for walks, watch the shows we enjoy, etc. Some of us never had the time to experiment with baking or cooking unusual dishes & that can be fun. Time for art, museums & hobbies. And helping people who are less fortunate can remind us to be more aware of what we do have to be grateful for. Life is different seasons & accepting the solo seasons is part of it. Most welcome & helpful video! ☺️
You could have your own podcast! That was beautifully written...and wonderful reminders. Thank you!!💚
Thank you! ☺️ @@extraordinarywomennextchapter
For me, it's not so much that I think it's SELFISH to love/care for myself. First, it's because as a single mom, there was rarely time nor money to do so. Also, it's because I neglected my needs for so long that I couldn't identify them nor even think how to change. I am thankful for internet info, church groups, and TH-cam videos like this that generously share ideas from people who have "been there."
@ I was a single mother from the time my children were little. Time & money are serious, difficult issues to deal with. It is incredibly hard to even identify what your own needs & desires are after being in a situation where you must put your children & work before yourself. My children are young adults now but I’m definitely still trying to figure out how to better understand & care for myself. My mother & grandmother were martyrs & so that’s why I often think to myself that I shouldn’t “be selfish” so for some of us, it’s about finding a balance between what we feel ok with & what we can or should do without.
I hope that everyone can find the resources to help us on our path towards a more healthy life balance.
@@candicisco9666 My experience has been quite similar. I, too, got the message from early childhood that my needs didn't matter. I am (finally!) working on changing that perspective! Best to you.
I am a single senior…enjoyed your video very much. I decorate my apartment,do Christmas baking for others ,Christmas music and movies. Some of your suggestions are way beyond my financial ability.
Thank you for joining me!! As for my suggestions, if something appealed to you, explore how you can afford it...like a facial- could you make a lovely mixture at home with buyable ingredients (probably healthier!) I find it so fun to explore how to take an "expensive option" and find something similar that is affordable for us or something I can make. Thoughts?
Agree, I always do a tree, I love it, I'll pick large branches for a large pot to create the size tree I need, they've become so expensive, also they're always too big. Since being a mother I started buying myself a Christmas & birthday gift. They're sometimes small or not but I rarely get what I wish for or really need. It maybe my favourite hand cream I'm running low on or my favourite chocolates, clothing & I get the store to wrap so I can unwrap that morning. I really enjoy it & it feels very self nurturing & caring. I start decorations 1st Dec as do most of Australia I'm going to add an advent calendar now .. never had as a child my mother was not into Christmas. Thankyou for sharing Jane xo
Thank you for sharing Jane. I didn't know that in Australia it is common to put up your decorations early december. It seems to be getting earlier and earlier everywhere! I'm in London and the Christmas decorations are already up on the streets!
@@extraordinarywomennextchapter I know! its crazy! the Coles & Woolworths the US stores have it out now but most people I know and we have always started Dec 1st 🎄 Its too long otherwise & we do 12 days after Xmas, then trees down. When do you put your tree down?
Good day Sharri, thank you for your ideas for those who may be spending alone during the holidays. I have spent many times alone and I had put your ideas into practice already and it has helped. On another note I would love for you to put on your channel how you came about finding your home in Paris and the steps you went to obtaining it - especially if there any stipulation upon obtaining one. Love your show and I always look forward to seeing your channel.
So happy to hear you are trying on some of the ideas I shared. Let me know which you like best. Also, the Paris apartment process is in my book, which is scheduled to be released in January- right after the first of the year. Mostly though, you have to ask why you want to live in say Paris, and then you can get into the nitty gritty of buying (rather easy) and maintaining a second home in Paris or wherever (not so easy).
Hi Sharri, thank you for these great suggestions. So many wonderful ideas.
Thank you for joining me, and feel free to share your own ideas!! We all need them!!
Thank you so much! I love this video I will be sharing!
thank you and happy you liked the video!!
I like to plan a meal with a roast cornish hen and also find some special books to read during the holidays - not necessarily holiday themed. I also do a big pot of greens, red twig dogwood and red berries, along with fairy lights, on my porch. It makes me happy to come home to.
What a beautiful way to welcome yourself and others to your home! I love the idea and plan to incorporate it into my little entry area! Thank you for sharing. 💚
For Halloween & Thanksgiving, I have a small pumpkin on my dinning room table with a tan tablecloth and orange placemats. I also, get a large pumpkin for the front porch.
Natural and so beautiful!
Delia also makes the best trifle I've ever eaten - it's called 'Caramelised Orange Trifle' - oh my God!!! Even if you're not particularly a fan of orange you will absolutely love this and people will be talking about it for months.
thank you!! Oh my...I can't wait to try it. I have all of Delia's old cookbooks!!
Hi Shari, just found your channel. I’ve been solo since 2012. I do all of the things you suggested. One of my favorite movies during the holidays is: ‘While You Were Sleeping’.
Oh gosh, I LOVE that movie!! And Sandra Bullock. Thank you for the reminder!! It's now on my list.
Some wonderful ideas here. I have struggled with the holidays over the past couple of decades - wanting to make good memories for my children, but being sad and lonely when they went to their father's for Christmas vacation week. Of course, it's not the best time to reach out to friends, either, as THEY have family to be with. I do better now, but it does take effort. First, I accept that I will have the "Christmas Cry" sometime in the month of December. It's a tradition I would love to be rid of, but it happens so I now accept there will be some sad feelings, deal with them, and then I'm fine. "Yes" to decor and candles! I also have been creating new ornaments to add to my tree every year. I have learned to make plans, as you suggest. I always have something to look forward to, maybe even a special phone call with a friend/family member I can't be with, maybe a new-release movie at the theater. I love, love your suggestion of an advent calendar - buying something for me but it's also a surprise! WIN! And making a playlist ahead of time - wise idea to combat the silence. Now I buy myself a gift, something that I want but wouldn't ordinarily purchase in the day-to-day. It's quite lovely - I always like what I receive! 😂
You are not alone...and maybe you have to just schedule in a good Christmas cry. I've been there and tried to stuff it down, which doesn't work very well. One of our lovely subscribers mentioned that when she purchases things for herself online, she checks the "this is a gift" box so whatever it is arrives wrapped and she puts it under her tree. I thought her idea was brilliant!! Join me in trying that one. 🎁
Hello from Canada. Sherri, I believe you are talking about cupcakes. I love this video. Please make more of this kind. Take care.
Not cupcakes but little sticky toffee puddings. www.deliaonline.com/recipes/collections/hot-puddings/little-sticky-toffee-puddings-with-pecan-toffee-sauce... absolutely incredible!!!
Sharri, thanks so much for the ideas! Sometimes you just have to kick yourself in the pants and DO some of them. I'm working on that part! Thanks again! 💗
Oh we all need those pep talks sometimes...I have to at times, look at myself in a mirror and ask, what are you letting yourself get so sad about?? You deserve to be happy and that's up to you! You'll make these upcoming holidays special, I just know it.
Thanks for an enjoyable and enlightening video. But I couldn’t possibly freeze those desserts because I would have no willpower, and would eat them before guests visited! 🤣
Hello Sharri, thank you very much for your suggestions. At least I will use my favourite dishes, cutleries and candle, which I usually use when my guests come to my place. I noticed your voice sounded different. Please do take care.
Oh I love that...another subscriber said "Life is a special occasion every day." Isn't that true? So pull out the dishes, the pretty cutlery and light the candles!! (My cold is finally over!!)
Thank you so much for your video! I nederdelen it now. 🍁💜
Sherri, I wish you the best and happiest Holiday season. I agree with all the positive things you have mentioned in this video, whether solo or with friends & family it should be joyous! I definitely think you could be an interior designer, because your Parisien apartment is just lovely & you had much to do with that great space!
I signed up for a certificate program in Interior Architecture - not a career direction but because it is one of my creative outlets!! Thank you and sending you many many joyous holiday moments!! 💚
Hi Sharri, Thank you for the tips. I especially like the idea of making and freezing some special meals and dessert ahead of time. I still love watching A Christmas Story and the first Home Alone. I love the movies before all the technology. I purchased a few things awhile ago and made a European style advent, so I will open a gift every weekend in December.
How wonderful that you make your own advent calendar!! Great idea I'm going to copy!! 💚
Love this ! Iv been alone a lot at the holidays and I do all kinds of stuff ! No 1 decorations are a must ! Christmas trees !! A must and pine candles a must ! I cook and make a big deal out of it ! My fav is fondue !! That way I can nibble though out the day ! Yes I injoyed all of your ideas
So happy to hear you enjoyed the video...love, love fondue!! Tell more!
Oh....fondue! When my kids were little we had fondue every Christmas, and it was really special. The pot stopped working, was trashed, and haven't thought about it in years. Maybe THAT will be my special gift to myself this year! Thanks for the inspiration; I love your positive attitude!
I have been checking all day for your next video. Did I miss it somehow? I look so forward to them each week and have found them to be incredibly motivating in so many aspects of my life. No pressure if you aren’t planning to have one this week. I hope your cold is better and that you are on the mend. Take care
Oh we are just a little behind! I'm in London- going to visit my oldest granddaughter who is at the university of Edinburgh in Scotland for her birthday. Video should be out today!! Thank you!!
Holidays for some people are times of sadness, I know it because I’ve experienced due to family members lost their lives. However, Christmas for me is most important holiday because we all go to church together regardless of the pain we endured. Celebrating a holiday is about a personal choice. I like to decorate our apartment with at least color schemes. Thus, I don’t like many decorations because it’s too expensive and takes time. 🙏
You are making it special with your lovely routine of church with family...and I love the changed up color schemes.
Sharri, this is incredibly helpful information. As this is fresh and new for me this holiday season I have wondered how I would manage it with grace and joy. It’s not just the actual holidays that concerned me but all of the days surrounding them. With your suggestions in mind, I am stating to work on some ideas and holiday plans. I feel optimistic and actually a little excited. Thank you.
Your share touched me...and yes, let yourself get excited!! Turn on Sydnie Christmas' new album and do it your way!!
I get flowers for my house every 2 weeks.
Love this idea...flowers can make a house a home. Thank you for reminding us of that!
⭐️ Jesus is the Reason for this Season ~ Let's put Christ back into Christmas..! ⭐️
YES!!!
You are right.
Hello Sharri!
Welcome!
You can always invite someone over that has no family to celebrate with, it’s Biblical❣️🥰💕🙏🏻🙏🏻👑🎄🕎
love your share...thank you!
Thank you Shari for your great tips. I joined a Messianic congregation so now I celebrate the Biblical holiday feasts including Hanukkah (and Christmas)❣️🥰💕🙏🏻👑🎄🕎 I have enjoyed making beef bourgignon for Christmas and potatoe latkes for Hanukkah ❣️Also, visit a Messianic congregation in March where they celebrate Purim, the Feast of Esther, where they eat Hamantaschen Haman’s Ears‼️We also have a Thanksgiving feast at our Synagogue which is nice for those who don’t have family. God bless you❣️🥰💕🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻❤️
Oh my...you are so inspiring. I'm learning from you! Thank you for sharing. Love, love all that you do!!
Haman Tashen-
Whilst all this is sage advice, there's a huge difference between someone doing Christmas alone because they live at a distance from their family versus people who are 'elder orphans' (ie whose family are deceased) who sadly don't have the luxury of family being just a 'phone call away. And if you happen to be a singleton out of a group of friends who are all married, the three days of festive celebration can seem like a century.
You are so right...sometimes spending time with myself can be more enjoyable than with a group of coupled friends, which can sometimes make us feel lonely and even sad. Moderation I say!