The week between Christmas and New Year’s always feels slow and dragging for me, even if I’m working. This year I took the time off and packed it with quality time with my family.

My little cousin Yahel wanted to spend a few extra days during his winter break with us, so he stayed behind when my family headed back to New York City after spending Christmas with us.

No matter the size of the group or how much I enjoy it, hosting is exhausting! So after resting from the Christmas madness, we spent most of our time playing board and pool games, binge watching Christmas classics like Home Alone, giving new films, like Wendy and Soul, a try — we highly recommend the latter — and cooking most of our meals together.

We also sneaked in a nice walk in Tyler State Park on Sunday; unfortunately, not everyone was wearing a mask so we kept it short, but it felt great to be outside and breathe in some fresh air.

Although it was busy, this time also allowed me to reflect on all of the blessings in disguise that such an uncertain year brought into my life and reminded me of my most precious treasure: family. I feel privileged and extremely grateful to end this year with my health, surrounded by love and excited about what’s to come.

Happy New Year!

— Yasser Ogando, production & advertising coordinator