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Holiday Keepsakes

When presents become memories that last a lifetime

Article by Kelly Shearing

Photography by Kelly Shearing

Originally published in NBTX City Lifestyle

There’s something magical about the holidays. We chatted with locals at Betty Lou Coffee Company about gifts that truly matter. From elephant experiences to cherished photo books, these stories show that the holidays shine brightest through memories, laughter, and heartfelt surprises. Here are some of the gifts that sparked stories:

  • A base guitar. This is what sparked Savannah's interest in music and what motivated her to learn how to play. - Savannah S.
  • Trip to Mexico City. Unknown at the time, this trip was 40 years to the day from her last trip to Mexico City. - Martha H.
  • The gift of traveling and being able to travel. Colorado and Mexico City have been a few highlights. - Barry H.
  • A $130 pillow was a gift that wasn't initially loved. Now, she loves the pillow, has been getting the best sleep ever, and takes the pillow on any and all trips. - Alexis C.
  • Going to Durango, Colorado. Lauren talked about how magical it was going to Colorado in the winter with all the snow and the lights. - Lauren Ruiz
  • Having the chance to celebrate Jesus's birthday. Joel is also grateful for the gift of being able to slow down for the holidays and spend time with loved ones. - Joel Schaffner
  • Monopoly. After moving to a new church, Debbie was touched when her name was called out to receive a gift as a child. Now, she gets a new Monopoly game often to celebrate that special memory. - Debbie Laughlin
  • Homemade gifts from her son. Whether they come from school or are a handmade card, they are all cherished. - Kristen
  • The handmade stuff the kids bring home is always a great gift to receive. - Courtney Dallimore
  • A pair of roller skates. She always wanted a pair of roller skates when growing up, and Rick delivered. - Aspen
  • A Ray Wylie Hubbard vinyl album. - Rick
  • An espresso machine. She uses it all the time in the winter months. - Loren
  • 1978 KISS record player. - Eric P.
  • Something to do or a place to go visit. She just loves the experiences. - Lisa Hopkins
  • An elephant experience. She loves elephants, and this gift was a dream come true. - Ryan Lathe
  • Photo books from the family. Every year, her parents gather up a collection of family photos and create a yearly photobook that they give to the whole family. - Sarah Kaney
  • Her sister gave her caterpillar hair clips. She wears them nearly every single day. - Maddline K
  • Clothes you wouldn't normally go out and splurge on. - Ryan Ponzio
  • Record player. She listens to everything from yacht rock to R&B. - Kaylee Campos
  • Michael Kors wallet. - Elizabeth B.
  • Treasured time with the family and the grandkids. - Yvonne & Tommy Thompson
  • Fun experiences and personalized cards are perfect. - Melinda
  • Her parents bought a train set for the family when she was a child. Every year, they would set it up around the tree. - Hannah Rose

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