Making memories may be the most important thing you'll do this holiday season!

Did you know that Brys Estate and the Secret Garden are family owned and run businesses? Family, faith and tradition are the foundation of what we do at Brys Estate. We believe that spending time with the people you love leads to the best memories! Our mission at the Secret Garden is to be a place where memories can bloom for you, your friends, and your family! Making memories is important for your wellbeing and your mental health. Read below as we continue to explore the benefits of spending time with loved ones and making memories!

1. Making memories helps shape your traditions

The time spent with people you love is even more important than you might realize. Especially if you have little ones. The memories they hold tight can shape their values as they get older. If memories are made by spending quality family time over delicious meals, watching movies, playing games, exchanging gifts and laughter, children will take these fond memories and create their own special moments. The wonderful traditions will pass on from generation to generation. As you make plans for the holiday season, keep this in mind. What makes a holiday special for you? What kind of new traditions do you want to create with the people you love? Be intentional about it and make memories that will last a lifetime!

---

2. Having treasured memories is important during times of hardship

We've all been through our fair share of tough times, especially over the last two years. During those times of hardship and struggles, it's important to have treasured memories to lean on. Even though restrictions have lifted and we're able to visit friends and family again, it's important not to take these moments for granted. Perhaps the holiday season is the only time your loved ones will be together all year; be intentional about what you do and how you spend your time this holiday season. 

---

3. Time is limited so make memories now

This might be the most important point of all. No one knows how much time they or their loved ones have on this earth. So many people have experienced tragic, unexpected loss in the past few years and felt the impact of grief and sadness on their daily lives. As we begin to gather with loved ones again, let's not forget to treasure the moments and enjoy the time we have to gather with those we love. Take time to carry out traditions, call those who can't be with you, and don't be afraid to tell them how much they mean to you! 

---

So What's Next?

 Making memories doesn't have to be complicated or stressful. When planning for your family get-togethers, don't overdue. Keep things simple, fun and without stress. The best way to ensure that great memories are made this holiday season is by finding something that brings your loved ones closer together. Maybe its as simple as sharing a meal. If cooking is stressful, going out to eat, getting takeout or everyone pitching in and bringing a dish are great options! Perhaps your loved ones enjoy watching movies, whether at home or at the theater. Or you might find you connect better in the great outdoors. Start a new tradition and take a walk after your Thanksgiving meal! We're firm believers that great memories can be made in the most mundane circumstances as long as you're with the people you love! 

---

We hope you enjoy time with loved ones this holiday season. Thank you for your outpouring of love and support this past year. We continue to grow more and more grateful for our Secret Garden family each year. We're wishing you the sweetest memories and the best ending to the year. We can't wait to see what 2022 has in store! Happy holidays from the Secret Garden at Brys Estate!