5 ways to connect when you’re apart for the holidays
Christmas Eve is here. It’s a time for joy, laughter and cherished moments with loved ones. I know how busy this day can get, but a little bit of tech-savvy can help make it even more special.
Here are five quick and simple ways to use technology to connect with family and create memories without taking up too much time.
1. Share a quick video call
Even if you’re rushing between cooking, wrapping and organizing, a video call makes you feel close to distant loved ones. Apps like FaceTime, Google Meet or Zoom make it easy. I text in advance to agree on a time since folks are running around today.
- Pro tip: Set a timer for 10 minutes to say hello, show off your tree or share a quick holiday toast.
2. Snap and share holiday photos
Capture candid moments of your Christmas Eve fun and share them with family using Google Photos, Apple’s Shared Albums or even a private Facebook group.
- Pro tip: Use apps like Canva to create quick, festive photo collages. It’s fun and you’ll be happy to look back on them later.
- Facebook tip: Create a private group to upload and comment on photos throughout the night. It’s a fun way to be “together” from afar.
3. Send a digital holiday card
If you haven’t sent cards this year, it’s not too late! Hit up Canva (free), Adobe Express (30-day trial) or Paperless Post (about 25 cents per card). Choose a template, whip up a greeting and send it in just a few minutes — no printing or trip to the post office required.
- Why it works: A quick note of love and holiday cheer can mean the world to someone who may not expect it.
4. Watch a movie together from anywhere
Cuddle up with family and watch a holiday classic, even if you’re apart. Teleparty works in your web browser to sync up the video and adds a group chat to Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max and Amazon Prime. A free account gets the job done!
- Best picks: Go with crowd-pleasers like “Home Alone,” “Elf” or “The Polar Express.”
5. Record a simple holiday message
Take a moment to record a short video message for friends and fam who can’t join in person. It only takes a minute, and it’ll mean a lot.
Open your phone’s Camera app, switch to Video mode and press record. Now, send your video via text or email, or upload it to a private Facebook group to share with the whole crew.
- Pro tip: Gather the entire family for a group message to make it extra special.
- Tell a joke: What do you call a Christmas wreath made out of $100 bills? Aretha Franklins!
From my home to yours
Christmas Eve is about cherishing the moments, no matter how small. For me, that means making chicken pot pie for nine adults and 10 children, a tradition I look forward to every year. Here’s my recipe.
After dinner, we’ll settle in and watch “The Polar Express.” Then, once my guests all leave, I’ll clean the kitchen while watching the pope’s Mass from the Vatican, a beautiful way to close out the evening and reflect on the real reason for the season: The birth of our Lord.
💝 No matter how you’re celebrating, I hope you find a little extra joy tonight. Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Tags: Apple, Christmas, FaceTime, Google Meet, Google Photos, greeting cards, holidays, web browser, Zoom
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