First and foremost, the crew is busy! Secondly, as our Holiday decorator, I thought I could offer a little insight into what happens around Vaya during the holidays. We have some excellent ongoing traditions, as well as some new ones.

It all begins about the second week of December, when Cheryl and Andrea bring in the Christmas tree (I would like to mention that they visited three tree lots before choosing this year’s winner). This is the second year in a row we’ve had a real tree and I’m pleased to report that the trauma I have experienced from fake tree assembly is starting to wane. Decoration boxes appear out of storage, and I’m free to go at it. ‘Going at it’ consists of turning on Christmas music, and sweating over the tree for the remainder of my day. New tradition: bring in a change of clothes for tree trimming day- this is a work out people!

I guess now would be a good time to mention…Carl. Or is it Karl? Honestly I’m not sure- all I know is that he is the manliest mannequin I have ever known, and he pretty much hangs out in the lobby full time. We even had to find clothes for him because he was distracting the ladies. I mention Karl because he is included in our decorating festivities all year long, and may be misunderstood, or even worse, considered a bit…creepy.

Anyway, one of my favorite traditions is the decorating of the Monkey Tree out front (see picture!). People love this tree with ornaments on it; kids and grownups alike stop to admire it. My favorite was a few years ago when it snowed (ARCTIC BLAST 2009!!!), and it was so beautiful.

The last real tradition we have here at Vaya is our Christmas party, which consists of a delicious lunch and a gift card exchange. It is always funny to see what gifts are the most coveted, because after all we are civilized and do play by the “three steals” rule (if you are unfamiliar with this, I suggest you do some research). On a side note, I would like to know why it is always the men who end up with the Victoria Secret gift cards? I never can seem to get my hands on one!

The big new thing this year (I am unsure if this is a tradition or just a once in a lifetime amazing gift) is that we are closed the week between Christmas and New Years. Yes, we all get a paid vacation for Christmas.  This gift is very special to me personally because I just love the holidays so much. Having a real break for the holidays makes me feel like I’m a kid again. It’s the same reason I pray for snow every Christmas; it slows everyone down. People have to stop hurrying and worrying, and are forced to retreat into their homes and be cozy. I know that everyone has their own reasons for appreciating this gift whether it’s because of a new baby at home, a bunch of kids and a long road trip, or just a need for some downtime.

I hope that everyone enjoys his or her holiday this year, whatever this means to you. At Vaya that means many things; but most of all it means taking a moment to slow down and appreciate the people around us.