Chris reached out to find out who would be available to meet this weekend before the holiday rush begins. Relocating to Park City can feel both exhilarating and daunting, akin to jumping from a plane into the unknown. For many newcomers, establishing roots without the comfort of family or a familiar network can lead to a feeling of weightlessness, where the thrill of new experiences is coupled with vulnerability. Arriving in Park City in 2020, I knew only one person, Matt, who assisted me in finding temporary accommodation and introduced me to a supportive friend group. His family welcomed me like one of their own, helping me feel at home during my initial transition. Recently, with Matt's move to Jackson Hole, I was reminded of the transient nature of chosen families and the connections we forge. Revisiting the film 'The Brothers McMullen' highlighted themes of familial bonds and the significance of togetherness often realized after leaving home. The holidays amplify feelings of longing for family, prompting many, including myself, to create new traditions with friends. While family ties may stretch across states, new relationships built through shared experiences can foster a strong sense of belonging. In Park City, I have formed connections in unexpected ways. Monthly dinners with a group aptly named the 'Wild Women' provide companionship and support, helping bridge the gap of distance from my family back in Rochester. The CrossFit classes at Park City Fit have become another vital connection point, providing a sense of community where I'm recognized and missed if absent. On the slopes, the camaraderie of fellow skiers, who check in and invite me to join them, enriches my experience, making each outing feel like a shared adventure. During the holidays, these gestures of kindness take on added significance, reinforcing the idea that chosen families can be just as meaningful as those related by blood. As I decorated a small tree with ornaments, many inherited from my mother, I was reminded of the connections that endure despite physical distance. One ornament, a ceramic heart from my sister, beautifully encapsulates the sentiment that regardless of how far apart we may be, our families remain close at heart. This realization brings comfort, highlighting the importance of both biological and chosen families in our lives.