Nie Asks: What Are Your Favorite Holiday Memories?

One of my favorite memories is of being in my grandmother's home, listening to her Firestone Christmas albums, with all of the lights turned off except for the sparkling colored mini lights on her Christmas tree. I can still remember the feeling of being awed by the beautiful music and decorations.

The last Christmas my Dad spent with us before he passed away, I was 7. He took us in a big department store and told us to pick out anything we wanted. I don't know if he knew that he was sick already, but it was rememberable.

Ordering Chinese food for Christmas Eve dinner. My mom was often over-extending herself on the holidays; this was a way for he r to take a bit of a break before the big day. It was a fun, colorful feast, and a way for me to think of my mom and be grateful for all she does. I do it still with my own family. Heaven knows moms need a break on Christmas Eve!