Family Stories

November is National Family Stories Month- the perfect time to share favorite memories or traditions. Often many families gather together over a Thanksgiving meal, making for the perfect opportunity to share these stories. While this year is different in that our nation is in a pandemic and gathering together physically may not be possible for extended families, we thought it important to share our FAMILY stories!

Here are a few favorite memories from our Representatives:

Cadena Family

"Work hard but… play harder is one of our favorite mottos around here. Our spontaneous trips tend to be our best.  One of my favorite trips of all time as a family was when we visited Myrtle Beach for the weekend.  It was in February, so it was still a bit chilly but so much fun.  Although the ocean was freezing, the kids enjoyed kicking their shoes off and feeling the sand between their toes.  They played until their little feet couldn’t stand the cold anymore.  We went and warmed up in the hot tubs and then actually took a swim in the outdoor pool that was heated.  It was one of the most relaxed and cherished memories." 

Liz S.

Our family is big on all of the scents that go with the holidays! From cinnamon wassail and Christmas trees to the spices of our favorite foods. Every year we make pomanders to dry and become fragrant, they also make fun decorations.

Another thing that we do, is “adopt” a family from our local “tree of sharing” and buy gifts for someone who’s facing difficult circumstances this year. My teenagers save their money to buy a gift and try to make the holidays fun for someone their age.

Our First Gingerbread House

Tiffany S.

Since we were married in 2012, we have enjoyed decorating a gingerbread home every December. In past years, when visiting family out of state, we decided we would share this fun tradition with them. We buy tiny gingerbread villages from the store, equip ourselves with extra frosting and decorations (a must in our household), and everyone decorates their own house. Our family LOVES a good, healthy competition, so we have those who were not present on decorating day cast votes for their favorite! We've had to make a few rules along the way after all the red frosting was used on one home before we officially began working on our masterpieces. The best part is the memories made!

From our Family to yours, wishing you a happy holiday season! 

~Heroes Thanking Heroes Team