ABOVE: Guest editor Chris snaps a selfie at her Miami home.  She paired our white button blouse with skinny black pants and foolproof cap toe shoes for a comfy, yet stylish WFH look.

While many are counting the days for 2020 to be over, I’m planning on savoring every last second of it. Although this  year has been the most trying one yet, it has taught us many lessons. How being alone is not the same as being lonely and just how creative we can all get when challenged. 

Sure, I too miss having a busy social calendar and the prospect of receiving the new year in an exotic destination. But spending time with ourselves may be one of the best gifts we receive in years to come. Here’s how I plan on spending my free time this holiday season:

Doing some serious self-care during the week

• Enjoying my workouts more by extending them. That may seem counterintuitive, but part of why I loathe working out sometimes is having time constrictions. I plan on going on long walks and practicing yoga every day during December. 
• Booking a lymphatic drainage massage, a wonderful facial, and a fun manicure.

ABOVE: Sana Skin Studio offers a holistic and integrated approach to loving the skin you're in.  A must for any Siren in the Miami area, they offer goal-driven services , placing you in total control of the objectives and outcomes. YOU are your own skin healer.

• Sleeping 8 hours every day
• Taking time to eat well, enjoy my food, and not feel guilty about it. Here’s a recipe I want to try: Foolproof Tarte Tatin

Exploring beyond my city

• It makes me so happy to see so many friends exploring their countries/states this year. It’s my goal to explore at least two new places in Florida this month. On my list: The Dali Museum in St. Petersburg and Naples. 

ABOVE: The Dalí Museum celebrates the life and art of the influential and innovative artist, Salvador Dalí.  Designed by architect Yann Weymouth, The Dalí’s building combines the rational with the fantastical- including an "avant-garden" and digital experiences meant to engage guests in unconventional ways.

• Don’t want to go alone? Convince a friend to go on a road trip or finally commit to visiting that college friend you haven’t seen in years! 

Getting creative with gifts

• Experiential gifts are my go-to and even with the current challenges, this year won’t be the exception. Here are some ideas:
• A picnic with your significant other curated with his/her favorite snacks, wine, and music. 

ABOVE: The VB Picnic Co. makes bohemian picnic dreams come true. The beautiful backdrop of Virginia Beach meets custom curated bohemian table scapes- leave all the details to them. They set up a styled luxury picnic at the location of your choice and clean it all up once the party is over. The most unique, intimate, and relaxing way to gather with your loved ones is here. All you have to do is show up.

• A private makeup class for the glam Queen/King in your life. I did one through Zoom for one of my best friends and it was amazing!
• A “free afternoon” for your favorite kids’ parent(s). Babysitting for friends is the gift that keeps on giving.
• A yoga membership or meditation class for your uber-stressed friend. 

Spreading kindness

• To our planet: using sustainable packaging.
• To our community: volunteering in any way this holiday season. Sharing meals, donating clothing, spending time with the elderly.
• To each other: call your loved ones, surprise friends with flowers, send hand-written notes. And most importantly, remind yourself of everything you went through this year and celebrate YOU.