I love when “memories” pop up on my phone or social media—especially around the holidays. Looking through photos of seasons past, filled with gingerbread competitions, family gatherings, and sweet times with the girls, always gets me excited for the season ahead.
One of my favorite pictures that recently resurfaced is of my older brother and me, Christmas circa 1971. In the photo, we’re in our pajamas, hanging stockings on the mantle. It sounds like a typical Norman Rockwell moment—except for one thing. No Rockwell painting I’ve ever seen includes a cardboard fireplace!
Yes, you read that right: an assembly-required cardboard fireplace. We thought it was the best thing ever! Our whole family would light up when Dad pulled out that box. This cardboard wonder wasn’t just a flat façade—it was “realistic,” with a brick pattern, a functional mantle, and even lights behind flames to mimic a flickering fire. Jim reminded me how we would sit in front of it, pretending to warm our hands. Naturally, we decorated it with the manger scene, our stockings, and a little aluminum tree. It was truly magical.
What a special memory—and a perfect way to kick off the holiday season! After all, the holidays are really about spending time with loved ones and making memories that last. It’s easy to get caught up in the gift-giving process, but while gifts are fun (especially for the kids), it’s the special moments that linger in our hearts.
In her feature More Meaning, Less Stress: 8 Memory-Making Christmas Traditions That Discourage Materialism, Shannon Dean shares wonderful ideas for creating meaningful holiday moments. And Pam Molnar keeps the fun going as we ring in the new year with her piece Midnight Madness: Eight Family Games for New Year’s Eve.
But that’s not all! This issue is packed with holiday happenings in our Holiday Event Guide. And if that’s still not enough, check out even more events in our Family Calendar. Grab your planner and get ready to fill it with festive fun!
Whether you’re out shopping ’til you drop or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of Christmas, please remember those who may be struggling—the lonely widow down the street, families facing financial hardship, or those battling illness. Make it a family goal to give back this holiday season. It doesn’t matter if you give a million dollars or simply a smile—you never know how a small act of kindness might brighten someone’s day or even change their life.
May God bless you and your family this season with peace, joy, and laughter.
Author: Lynn Knighton
Lynn has called the Gulf area home since 2006 with her husband Brad and their 3 daughters. Following the sale of her Abrakadoodle franchise, Lynn still wanted to serve families and help them thrive. Becoming the Publisher of Greater Pensacola Parents was the perfect opportunity. Now she invests into family's lives each month by providing the area's #1 go-to resource for moms and dads.
