Don't let the idea of these new state mandates "bah-hum-BUG" you out. Thanks to technology, once again, we can keep this holiday with you and your families as special as it was before social distancing.

This year, everyone should get a pass and get their name on the "Nice List."

Here are some of the most popular ways people have used technology to amp up their holiday spirits:

Decorations |

• Connect your exterior lights to your smart device and put them on a timer
• Use a smart device outlet for your pre-lit tree to turn it on and off
• Project lights onto your house versus having to hang them using an outdoor projector
• Put a virtual fireplace on your tv and play for hours (Netflix and Roku can help you with this)

Gifting | 

• Send gifts directly to the recipient instead of wrapping and giving in person
• Send e-gifts like gift cards and money (Pay Pal and Venmo have been great resources for this)
• Use an app to help you organize your holiday shopping 

Streaming & Music |

• Netflix, Amazon, and your other smart devices can now play your holiday movies and songs
• Stream your Church service online 
• Purchase a smart/Bluetooth speaker and play that Mariah Carey song on repeat as many times as your heart desires

Staying Connected with Video |

• Video chat with your relatives when they can't be there for dinner (Zoom, Facetime, Skype, Teams, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, etc.)
• Zoom call with Santa, when your kids can't go see him in person 

Let's reshape the holidays - use these technologies to bring back your holiday spirit and stay connected with family members around the table...well, virtual table that is.