A Walk Down Memory Lane: December Note from the Editor

Photo by Jennie Sullins.

This time of year takes me back to an innocent, childlike state. My giddiness exponentially grows as I count down the days until holiday celebrations. I eagerly anticipate visits and stays from family and friends. I enjoy figuring out what each person on my list will receive—from DIY gifts for neighbors to something sentimental for my husband. I even love cooking and baking, words that never leave my mouth 11 of the 12 months.

I get this from my mom and grandmother, both of whom created special traditions that we’d do together. My grandmother and I would bake and decorate anise-flavored cutout cookies for hours, for instance. My mom and I would spend a weekend decking the halls, the banisters, the mantel and the tree with nostalgic decorations (my mom still hangs a collection of handmade reindeer my brother and I started for her when we were each in preschool).

In celebration of memories, we asked eight influential San Diegans to share their favorite childhood holiday recollections with us in our Holiday Gift Guide. Marley McCaughey, our associate editor, used each person’s memory to curate a small collection of tangible goodies to gift this year. It’s meant to serve as an inspiration. Yes, maybe you get the adventure seeker on your list a great carryall, but maybe that pack comes with an invitation to hike together.

My favorite traditions include attending my kids’ holiday performances (above) and train rides to visit Santa (below).

On the other hand, some traditions might be tastier revamped. Jackie Bruchez, cookbook author and blogger, used very typical seasonal flavors in atypical ways. Find her festive cake recipes, decorating tips and ideas for savoring every last bit of leftover frosting in O Christmas Treat.

You’ll also discover stories about letting someone else help you decorate, DIYing Mason jar planters, cooking with passion fruit and more. Plus, watch for a special hosting-and-gifting-without-stressing feature online.

From all of us, have a happy, memory-making holiday season.

Wendy Manwarren Generes