For as long as I can remember, the Christmas season has always been a time filled with extra special moments and cherished memories. I chuckle to myself as I recall those early years when I would eagerly await my turn to exchange a lengthy (2-minute) conversation with Santa at the mall, fully expecting him to work his ‘magic’ and deliver that one coveted gift from my list. Baby Skates was at the top of my list one year, do you remember her?! It was a much simpler time, back then growing up. No fancy electronics or devices would ever make their way under our tree, the fact that a motorized baby doll could actually somehow skate was wonderful, and perfect, in my book. Those simple, yet oh-so-magical, memories fill my mind as I remember Christmas past.
As the years went on and I eventually become a mother myself, experiencing Christmas through the eyes of my children was next level. Sharing in the hope and joy of the season continues to be something that I cling to, and for me, creating new Christmas memories for my family is nothing short of a miracle. In fact, a big part of our family holiday traditions began many years ago at The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.
While it’s no hidden secret that I host the annual Christmas At The Princess specials that air on YurView (one of my most favorite times of the year by the way!), taking in this holiday treat alongside my family is one that I always greatly anticipate.
This year as I filmed throughout the beautifully lit Fairmont Scottsdale Princess decked from top to bottom in all of its Christmas glory, I couldn’t help but smile and reflect on the joy, wonder and many memories shared by so many who have made Christmas at The Princess a treasured holiday tradition of their own, just as my family has.
There truly is something special that lingers in the homes and hearts of so many this time of year. A time to reflect on the true promise of the season, a time to remember that giving, not getting, brings to full bloom the Christmas spirit. May we give gifts to each other, and the world, of understanding and compassion, of service and friendship, of kindness and gentleness. Those things, after all, is the true and real ‘magic’ of the season.
From our home to yours, wishing you a joy-filled Christmas and a holiday season filled with hope, love and peace! Your friend, Erica Cardenas
Erica is hosting this year’s “Christmas at the Princess, Believe in the Magic” and you can catch it Sunday’s at 10:30 PM, Wednesday’s at 8 PM, Thursday’s at 6 PM and Saturday’s at 9:30 PM on YurView Cox Channel 4 in Phoenix and Channel 7 in Tucson.
