While the holidays are often full of cheer and excitement, they can be tough for those who have lost a loved one in the last year.

Hospice of Washington County Bereavement Director Jina Witthoft shares some advice for those who may be missing a loved one at this time, “I do advise to include them in some way. Figure out what your stresses are and what your traditions are, and what traditions are important to keep and what we can put on a back burner for maybe a year or two. And focus on what the importance is of the holiday. And include your loved one as much or as little as you feel would be appropriate.” Witthof says some examples of how families have honored loved ones include making a special ornament, setting a place for them at the Christmas dinner table, and sharing memories of them. Witthoft can be reached at Hospice of Washington County for further guidance.