KETZALLI LUJAN
As we were leaving, our parents broke the news to us that they decided a puppy would be too much responsibility at our age and that we, unfortunately, would not be getting a puppy. Christmas came around and there was one last present left under the tree. It was the biggest present there that year, a huge box, addressed to me and my brothers. My parents saved it for last and when we opened it, we found a bunch of dog supplies. We were obviously super confused what the supplies were for, as we had no puppy. We were sitting there in confusion, trying to figure out what’s going on, then we saw our dad outside, walking towards us with the same golden retriever puppy, with a Santa hat on her head! We were ecstatic! To this day, that’s still one of my favorite holiday memories.
![Monique family]()
MONIQUE VALDEPENA
MONIQUE VALDEPENAReceptionist
One of my favorite holiday memories was, actually, celebrating New Year's during the pandemic. Even though it was hard on everyone not being able to spend time with all of the family, I still tried to find a way to make it fun and enjoyable! New Year's Day is also my mother-in-law's birthday and even though we couldn’t go out to celebrate, we put together a little dinner at home since we live right next to each other. We got takeout, decorated the house, and spent the night together. I love this memory because even though times were hard, we found a way to look at the bright side.
MELANIE FEDER
Administrative Legal Assistant
I remember the first time I was allowed to light the menorah candles. It was the 7th night of Hanukkah and my parents gave me chocolate coins as my present and said that I looked like I could handle using a match. I was eager but nervous because I didn’t want to mess up the order which candles to light. Remarkably, I did it right and, afterward, I felt even more connected to the holiday and my traditions.
What are some of your favorite family traditions or holiday memories?
