Holiday Memories
Christmas is a magical time of year. The spirit of giving. The joy of spending time with family and close friends. And who could forget those nostalgic memories of the holiday’s traditions, like decorating the tree while listening to your favorite Christmas carols.
We thought it be would fun if we asked Maycreators to share some of their favorite Christmas memories with you. Those nostalgic moments from times past that always made their way back to them this time of year. As a special touch, we also asked them to share an early picture.
Daniel Jackson, Designer & Illustrator:
My favorite memory was the time when my wife, Hannah and I celebrated our first Christmas, while visiting her grandmother in Wisconsin. The day was spent with her parents, nieces, nephews, and siblings sledding down her grandmother's hill that had just been dusted with a fresh covering of snow. That was followed by coming inside for a cup of hot cocoa and the warmth of family love. It reminded me of my childhood days.
Mary Yap, Web Developer:
The Christmas of 2019 was especially memorable. It was the only time I’ve been back to my home country for this holiday since moving to the US. Christmas in the Philippines is unlike any other! We went caroling with family and friends and the memories we shared were priceless. Now that we all live in different areas of the world it’s nice to know we can all still come together for this special holiday.
Ian Lewis, Designer & Copywriter:
My favorite Christmas memory is the first Lexi and I spent with our daughter Tilly. The joy she brought to our family across Powell, Eagleville, and Franklin, Tennessee, was the greatest gift I've ever received. She’s an avid reader, so we started a family tradition of donating books each year, so other children can experience the delight of reading.
Morgen Tanksley, Senior Art Director:
That’s me on my third Christmas. My baby brother was my gift. I’m wearing my Santa Hat and Christmas jingle bell necklace at grandma’s house, waiting for Santa to drop in. My favorite Christmas memory, however, was the time my parents wrapped an envelope containing a single clue. Once opened, there were more clues inside that took us on a scavenger hunt ending in the garage where brand new bikes were waiting for us. Such a fun way to reveal such an awesome gift.
Amelia Brannon, Graphic Designer:
When it came to Christmas and the holiday season my favorite memory was spending time rehearsing at the theatre preparing to perform the nutcracker. My first year I was a baby mouse. It was a comedic role where I fought the nutcracker and other toy soldiers. I also performed in other roles as my experience, confidence and mastery of the art grew. My parents, sister, grandparents and friends came out every year to watch the show. I’m so thankful for their support and will always remember it this time of year.
Monty Wyne, Senior Copywriter:
My favorite Holiday Memory? When we went to spend Christmas with my sister and her family. They lived in Galesburg, Illinois where I grew up and we lived just outside of Atlanta. It was 10 hours door-to-door, but it was home to me. I’d help my sister prepare Christmas dinner and set the table. We’d reminisce following the meal and exchange gifts, hugs, and conversation. Catching up, would last past midnight. I never wanted it to end. I lost my sister earlier this year, but the memories and the laughter will last forever. Merry Christmas Sis’. Love, Your brother.
Erin May:
Erin and I drove home for Christmas to visit my family in North Carolina. The year was 2009 and little did we know we were about to drive into a blizzard in the mountains and an 8-hour drive turned into almost 22 hours to get home. We had our first dog (Derbie) with us. The NC Highway Patrol shut down I-40 so we had to get a hotel room without electricity. The room was 34º by the time we headed out the next morning. One of my favorite Christmas memories because my sweet Erin didn’t complain once and only referred to it as our Christmas family adventure. Brian May, President, ECD
Beau Belcher, Project Manager:
Hmmm...my favorite Christmas Memory? I was 3-years old, and so excited. Christmas was my favorite time of year. To celebrate this special holiday, I decided to dress up in something festive. Something that would show my family and friends just how much Christmas meant to me. How do you like those antlers? Only thing I’m missing is Rudolf‘s shining nose. To this very day, whenever Christmas is near, I look back to those early days just waiting to hear that familiar, “Ho, Ho, Ho.”
Aaron Petticord, Brand Strategist, Account Supervisor:
I’ll never forget the year I got a guitar for Christmas. Now I look at this photo and see a parent’s investment in their child’s interests. I've played classical guitar for a brunch crowd, sang cowboy songs at a Wyoming guest ranch, and recall open mic nights at numerous joints. Also started a band that played for no less than two people, and no more than 3,000. And I can’t forget the album I recorded in Nashville or the green room I shared with bands way better than mine. Today, I play silly songs for my kids while they're in the bathtub. This story began as my favorite memory of a Christmas gift, but the real gift might have been the memories that followed.
Abigail Bowman, Copywriter, Photographer, Content Manager:
Christmas morning, early 2000s—the year I unwrapped a karaoke machine and the American Girl “Doodle Studio.” I spent the rest of that day either doodling or belting out songs from the Lizzie McGuire Moviesoundtrack, sometimes both at once. I think that karaoke machine is still in my parents’ attic... Maybe I’ll bring it to the office after the holidays. Christmas growing up was truly magical, and I’m so grateful to my parents for creating that magic in our home.
In Closing…
We hope you enjoyed our early “Holiday Memories,” and we wish each and every one of our readers and their families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! See you in 2025.
Don’t forget to check out some Christmas tunes selected by our team!