First holiday After Loss of a Family Member

Losing a loved one can be very difficult. We each mourn in our own ways. As we approach the holiday season, it is especially important to discover ways in which you can celebrate life and preserve the memories we have of friends and loved on this first holiday After Loss. Although the holidays are typically times of festivity and joy, the loss of a loved one can leave us feeling lost, sad, or confused. As a family-owned and operated business, Legacy Headstones knows just how difficult these times of loss can be. We want each of our customers to enjoy the holidays, keep the memories alive, and spend time with loved ones that are still here. We have compiled a few of the most popular ways you can commemorate the deceased while joining in on the fun this Thanksgiving.

Prepare a Favorite Dish

Thanksgiving potlucks are very popular for large families or groups of friends. Regardless of where you spend your holiday, you can make the main meal more meaningful by preparing food your loved one enjoyed or used to make. Even a dish without any redeeming nutritional value can make the world of difference. Not sure what your loved one’s favorite recipes were? Try reaching out to family members to see whether they have fond memories to share.

Share What You’re Thankful For

Many families spend Thanksgiving by following the time-honored tradition of sharing thankfulness. Whether your family takes turns around the table or everyone gets to propose a toast, you can share a funny story about your loved one. Remember to partake in the festivities and focus on the memories on this first holiday After Loss. It is okay to smile, and it is okay to laugh.

Start a New Tradition

Family traditions may be too painful for this first holiday After Loss, and that is perfectly natural. Shake up your holiday routine by starting your own tradition. If you traditionally host Thanksgiving dinner at your home, you can let someone else host it this year or choose an alternative form of celebration altogether. Take a vacation, visit your loved one’s grave site, or take part in an activity he or she loved.

Holidays can be joyous, but they can also be times of grieving. Despite the passage of time, loss can still seem so new. If you are a family member or friend of someone who may be mourning, allow them to share his or her grief and emotions in a comfortable way. If you have any questions about planning ahead for the Thanksgiving holiday or are interested in customizing your own memorial, please contact a member of our team for further assistance.