When I worked at Xbox my boss at the time, Don Mattrick, gave me some priceless advice when I was expecting my first daughter. He told me to create memorable traditions for my new family.

When we moved from Seattle to Los Angeles five years ago, the holidays were tough for us as a family because we had embedded so many lovely traditions around the holiday from going to a real British Panto at Fremont Theatre, to seeing the Gingerbread houses at Fairmont Hotel, to the giant holiday train at Seattle Centre. Moving to 80’ sunshine in December was an unusual concept to get used to! Then I remembered Don’s advice and we started to create new LA traditions of our own. My favorite is going to see the Manhattan Beach Fireworks each December, especially because local companies Sketchers and Belkin sponsor a spectacular event that includes shipping in snow for the kids to build snowmen and ride a sled race, right on the beach!

Here’s an unexpected picture of us all complete with snow and palm trees! 

Wishing you all a relaxing and giggle filled holiday time with your friends and family.

With love, from my family to yours,

Val

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