I’ve heard many people lament that the holidays will look different this year with social distancing and COVID-19. While I feel for all of those who will be missing out on much-needed time with loved ones, part of me (admittedly) is looking forward to holidays with just my immediate family.

What could possibly be good about holiday celebrations during quarantine? Here are 10 tongue-in-cheek reasons to spend the holidays alone as a family unit:

1. No waking at the crack of dawn to stick a turkey in the oven.

2. Speaking of turkey— not mandatory.

3. No awkward small talk with distant relatives.

4. No watching every little thing that comes out of your mouth in order to not offend.

5. Fancy holiday plates…or paper products? Your choice!

6. Actually, why even cook? We ordered our Christmas meal from Sidon last year and it far exceeded any ham or roast.

7. Bra? Optional.

8. No one to secretly judge when you unbutton your pants after dinner (or just save yourself the trouble and stay in your pajamas).

9. No need to divvy up the leftovers. Mashed potato pancakes for days!

10. Perfectly acceptable to nap in the middle of the day.

Photos by BOB Motherhood Portraits by Tiana Lashae. Originally published in print and online in Toledo Parent.