Holiday traditions

Family is at the center of most folks' family traditions in the Sisters Country - whether it's venturing out into the woods in search of the perfect tree or relaxing with the family and watching a movie.

"We're diehard tree cutters," said Julia Rickards.

Her family ventures out, wherever the snow cover will allow, in search of the ideal tree. Each year the family event takes place after December 5, daughter Emily's birthday. They've never missed a year since moving to Sisters.

"Opening presents by the fire is our tradition," said Dan Fouts. It's a family tradition, but sometimes it draws uninvited guests. One year, "a pair of wild turkeys tried to join us. They almost walked right in."

Christmas morning presents is also the best time for Jeff and Tammy Taylor. They enjoy seeing "the kids all excited about what showed up."

Susan Arends honors a tradition that's at least three generations old: She prepares homemade corned beef hash on Christmas morning.

Sisters Fire Chief, Tay Robertson, says he has two favorite traditions. One is with family, the other relates to his job.

The family likes to gather on Christmas Day and watch Chevy Chase's "Christmas Vacation" for an afternoon of laughter and togetherness.

As fire chief, the annual parade is a highlight. The department rolls out several engines. Old No. 3 is always decorated to the nines.

"I absolutely love that holiday parade," Robertson says. "It's a great opportunity to get the firefighters together to contribute to a community event."