As we embrace new traditions this year, our Realtors have compiled a list of ways they are connecting with their family and friends while following CDC guidelines for a safe holiday. 

I am personally thrilled to take advantage of several of these as my family holiday plans have shifted to a very scaled back version of our traditions.
From our family to yours- we, at Lewith & Freeman are grateful for all of you and wish you a happy and healthy holiday.

We are Thankful for Zoom!
The popular video conferencing service, Zoom, traditionally allows a 40-minute time limit for free calls. This year they have launched #ZoomTogether extending their free version so that families may spend more time virtually connecting. If you are new to Zoom, our Realtors recommend downloading the app on your smartphone, this way you can join calls with one click!

Virtual Game Night
Family games are a tradition in many families. Our Realtors gave us a few game recommendations that we are thrilled to share for this one!

• Cards Against Humanity has a printable (free!) version of their website where you can play without leaving your home.
• Virtual Bingo is free for up to 30 players and includes randomized bingo cards, automated winner verifications and can be done on a screen or printed! Join in on the games with this link: https://myfreebingocards.com/virtual-bingo
• Most Likely To This game came recommended from several of our Realtors, I had never heard of it but can promise it will make its way to my table this year! You simply read a list of who is "Most likely to…" and the group picks who from the family it would be. A simple and fun conversation starter for any age group.
  

TV Together
Another part of many families' Thanksgiving tradition involve holiday TV events, like the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, The National Dog Show and of course this Steelers fan has to tune in to the 8:00PM football game. Many of our Realtors have plans to watch with different family members live on Facetime while the turkey cooks. 

Cooking Class with Grandma
We all have family favorite recipes which we may be missing this year. I am still in denial that I am missing my Grandmother's stuffing (dressing? stuffing? whatever you call it, it's amazing). While my Grandmother is not comfortable on Zoom, she is more than happy to chat with me on the phone and walk me through how to make this myself. It will not be exactly the same it's a small way we can connect that she is comfortable with. While we all lean into technology this year, don't forget to pick up the phone and make those important phone calls and put a card in the mail for those we are missing.

Host a Virtual Food Drive
Every year the Commission on Economic Development (CEO) has volunteers deliver fresh holiday meals to local families in need. This year, CEO developed a COVID-friendly option to help local NEPA families. 

The spirit of the season is alive with very 2020 Virtual Food Drive! Host your own virtual food drive benefiting the Weinberg Northeast Regional Food Bank using this link: https://www.ceopeoplehelpingpeople.org/weinberg_northeast_regional_food_bank