Feeling the Holiday Spirit yet? Is a calming winter escape what you need?

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Sometimes serving others takes unexpected turns — and mine involved tortillas, javelinas, and a bobcat. Sedona shines in winter — and with the right planning, it can be a calming experience. Service doesn’t have to be overwhelming. I’m sharing gentle, meaningful acts of kindness your family can enjoy together.

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🎄A Christmas Service Adventure (With a Few Wild Detours)

I had signed up to cook a meal for someone and planned on making carne asada tacos. I thought I had corn tortillas on hand… but I was wrong. So, I did what any mature Mexican woman does during a culinary emergency: I called my mother.

She lives just half a mile away and told me she’d leave some fresh corn tortillas on her front bench so I could grab them after the grocery store. She also asked if I could pick up some milk for her. Easy enough.

But when I drove to her house to drop off the milk, I saw them—our biggest neighborhood troublemakers… the javelinas! At least a dozen big, smelly javelinas were scattered across her yard, with two babies somewhere in the mix. A couple of them were even fighting. There was no way I was getting out of the car to retrieve those delicious tortillas!

On my way home, I had to slam on my brakes as a huge bobcat crossed right in front of my car. What a sight! I wasn’t fast enough to grab a picture, but it was incredible to see it so close! (and safely from inside my car!)

By the time I got home to cook dinner, the menu had changed. Instead of carne asada tacos, I made Navajo fried bread with taco meat and beans. And it turned out great.

It made me reflect: sometimes, even when we want to help or serve someone, unexpected obstacles show up and things get a little wild. But when our heart is in the right place, everything still turns out exactly the way it’s meant to.

December brings so many opportunities to serve. I invite you to look for someone who could use a little lift—maybe a meal, a can of food, a toy for a drive, or a small heartfelt gift. When given with love, it carries the true spirit of the Holidays!!!!

And remember… the spirit of Christmas or any Holiday you celebrate, begins at home. 🎄❤️

A Calming Winter Escape: Sensory-Friendly Sedona & Tips

Most of our family lives less than two hours away, so we usually don’t travel far for Christmas. But for many years we owned a timeshare in Sedona, Arizona, and we loved taking the kids to see the Light Up the Town event—it was truly magical.

Arizona is beautiful in the winter, and Sedona is especially peaceful that time of year. If you’re planning a holiday getaway, here are some sensory-friendly places and activities in Sedona that can help make the trip calm, enjoyable, and memorable:

1. Red Rock Crossing & Crescent Moon Picnic Site
A quiet, scenic place with open space to walk, explore, or sit by the creek. The soft sounds of water and stunning views make it calming for those who get overwhelmed easily.

2. Chapel of the Holy Cross (During Off-Peak Times)
Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. The peaceful atmosphere, gentle acoustics, and incredible views create a grounding sensory experience.

3. Sedona Heritage Museum
This spot is usually quieter than the busy tourist areas. Kids and adults can explore at their own pace without bright lights or loud noise.

4. Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village (Morning Visits)
While it can get busy, mornings are calm and perfect for wandering. The courtyards, fountains, and soft music offer a soothing environment.
Pro tip: Bring noise-reducing headphones in case foot traffic picks up.

5. Local Nature Trails
Sedona has many short, less crowded trails that work well for sensory-sensitive travelers.
Some gentle options:

• Bell Rock Pathway (South lot area)

• Sugarloaf Loop

• Fay Canyon Trail
  The open spaces, predictable trails, and natural stone surroundings can be grounding and rhythmic for autistic kids and adults.

6. Sunset Views at Airport Mesa Overlook
Go on a weekday right before dusk—avoid weekend crowds. You get a quiet, breathtaking view without needing to hike. Great for those who prefer a beautiful visual experience without too much sensory demand.

7. Slide Rock State Park (Winter Version)
While you won’t be sliding into cold water, the park is peaceful in the winter. Kids can explore safely without crowds, noises, or overstimulation.

Sensory-Friendly Restaurants in Sedona

If you’re looking for calm, predictable dining options, here are a few restaurants that tend to offer quieter environments, softer lighting, and flexible seating:

🌿 The Secret Garden Café
Outdoor seating helps reduce noise and offers a peaceful sensory break.
🔗 https://maps.app.goo.gl/K53F8s9xZsSzhqF99

🍝 Picazzo’s Healthy Italian Kitchen
Spacious dining room, gluten-free options, and a calmer lunch hour.
🔗 https://maps.app.goo.gl/3wW9nF7juGkUiBhg9

🍔 Golden Goose American Grill
Known for early dinner hours that are less crowded and more sensory-friendly.
🔗 https://maps.app.goo.gl/q79sfGNtQkZgne9G9

✨ Travel Tip: Request outdoor seating or a corner booth—these small adjustments can make the dining experience more comfortable for sensory-sensitive travelers.

Bonus Tips for a Sensory-Friendly Sedona Trip

• Bring a small comfort kit: headphones, fidgets, a weighted scarf or lap pad, familiar snacks.

• Visit main attractions early morning or weekdays to avoid overstimulation.

• Use visual schedules to prepare kids for transitions.

• Build in “quiet time” between outings—Sedona is perfect for slow, gentle travel.

Kindness Made Easy: Holiday Service Ideas for Autism Families

The holidays are a beautiful time to help our children learn about service in ways that feel safe, doable, and aligned with their sensory and emotional needs. Here are some autism-friendly acts of kindness families can do together—simple, meaningful, and created with your child’s strengths in mind:

Part two of ideas for Holiday Kindness is coming to you next week!

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