Holiday traditions

Whether they keep it low-key or turn into elves, folks in the Sisters Country revel in their holiday traditions.

"Mine is Christmas Eve with my family and making pizza," said Pinky Pagano, a secretary at Sisters High School. "We've gone to church and had pizza for years. In fact, I wanted to change this year and not have pizza, and they all had a fit!"

Principal Bob Macauley said his favorite tradition is "the night before Christmas opening one present and telling stories - and making them wait."

Sisters District Ranger Bill Anthony, like many in Sisters, appreciates the break from the usual grind that the holiday represents:

"There are two things I like most about the holiday season: The first is slowing down the pace of everyday life and having more time to connect with friends and family. The second for me ... I like to try the different foods that are a part of people's holiday traditions."

Marsha Marr, to no one's surprise, gets seriously into the decorating spirit.

"We go all out," she said. "The whole house, from the bathroom to the kitchen."

She inherited her elf spirit. Her father was a serious Christmas decorator, complete with installing train sets. Marsha has the trains, but not the space to lay them out.

"My father got into Christmas a lot," she said. "I inherited that."