Way back in the 1950's my grandparents started a tradition with my mom that has spanned through me and my siblings, my children and now my grandchildren. Santa and Christmas have always been a wonderful time of the year. We traveled all over the world so when we were able, me and my siblings sat with Santa every year. I always looked forward to that as a child. Because of this strong tradition, I have made sure my 5 children sit with Santa every year. My daughter and her husband are continuing the tradition. I love that we are still continuing something so fun! -Diana Turner, Morrison Financials
Our tradition as a family, and now including our daughter-in-law’s family, is to gather for a cozy dinner on Christmas Eve. We all dress in our festive Christmas pajamas, bringing out the holiday spirit, and hold a fun, competitive gingerbread house-making contest. After the contest, everyone receives a personalized stocking filled with little surprises and treats. This special time together has become a beloved tradition, filled with laughter, creativity, and warmth, setting the perfect tone for Christmas Day. - Kim Haynes, Sun Valley Health & Wellness
Every Christmas Eve, we gather for our big family dinner, play games, and slip into our festive Christmas pajamas, filling the night with laughter and joy. On Christmas morning, we wake up to open gifts, savoring each special moment together. Then, we make my Mema's infamous sausage breakfast casserole, topped with New Mexican-style red chili—a comforting family favorite that brings everyone to the table. The rest of the day is all about unwinding, enjoying each other's company, and reliving cherished memories, making the holiday truly special. -Megan & Mike Abeyta, Tile Dynamics
Briarwood transforms into a festive wonderland during the holidays, bringing joy and excitement to every celebration. Our members look forward to a variety of events, from the lively Jingle Bell Rock party to a delightful Christmas Eve Buffet. We top off the season with a memorable New Year’s Eve Balloon Drop, creating an unforgettable experience for all. With decorations that capture the magic of the season, Briarwood becomes a home away from home for our members, where they can celebrate cherished holiday traditions with friends and family, making new memories in an atmosphere filled with warmth and holiday spirit. - Michele Malo, Briarwood Country Club
Every December, we host a Holiday Appreciation Event to express our gratitude to our drivers for all they do for us and our clients. For the past five years, this event has been dedicated to honoring our drivers. This year, in our sixth annual celebration, we’re excited to extend our appreciation to include our valued clients as well. Another cherished December tradition is my Christmas Eve and Christmas Day attire! Every Christmas Eve, I dress in festive outfits and take on as many rides as possible, allowing my drivers to enjoy the holiday off. It’s my way of spreading joy while keeping the spirit of the season alive for our clients. - Carol Prelog, Executive Transportation.
One of our favorite office traditions is our Secret Santa gift exchange, where the team shares holiday cheer and thoughtful surprises. This year, we’re excited to give back by setting up a Christmas Angel tree in the office. Each team member can contribute to help those in need, making a meaningful impact during the holiday season. This tradition brings us closer together and allows us to spread joy both within our office and throughout our community. It’s a special way for us to celebrate the season and share the spirit of giving. - Dr Kamal & Krew, Surprise Orthodontics
Our family tradition starts with matching Christmas pajamas and gathering to read a cherished story passed down through generations, Sam's Christmas Wish. This special tale reminds us of the importance of serving others and accepting love and kindness during difficult times. Afterward, we spread holiday cheer by doing Secret Santa cookie drops for some of our elderly neighbors—our own “nice” version of doorbell ditching! This tradition brings us together, filling our hearts with gratitude and joy as we share the spirit of the season with others in our community. - Diana Smithson, Stronger Today Fitness
Norwegian potato dumplings, or Resmacomas as we call them, vary across families in recipe, name, and spelling, but this is the Lenning way! While we’re thrilled to share this beloved (and coma-inducing) recipe, it’s hard to capture Great Grandma Eunice’s method exactly. “Every potato is different…” she’d say as she prepared bacon water with 15 family members gathered around. Her memory lives on each holiday season as we make and share this meal with friends. Fresh or fried, Resmacomas are best served with breakfast meat, applesauce, butter, and salt.
Recipe:
potato dumplings: 7 cup grated raw potatoes, 2 tablespoons salt, 6 cups of flour - approximate test for stiffness * If potatoes are extra watery or moist drain off some liquid before mixing with flour. Instructions: Mix together flour and potatoes until stiff enough to form a ball with a large spoon. Dump in boiling water (salted) I put a couple of strips of bacon in the water. It adds some flavor and then they won't stick to the bottom as much. Watch carefully and keep the dumplings from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Cook about a hour or so and serve with butter, applesauce, and sausage (or whatever you like most). Good Luck!! - Nick & Desiree Lenning, Lenning & Associates
Each year during the holidays, the Molina staff gathers for a champagne toast to celebrate the remarkable creations we’ve crafted for clients, turning their visions into reality. Together, we reflect on the unforgettable moments and shared experiences with our clients, each other, and the community. It’s a special time to appreciate the year’s achievements and the bonds we’ve built along the way, leaving us inspired as we look forward to new projects and memories in the coming year. - Molina Fine Jewelers