I love the holiday season. However, Im always intrigued at how people respond to the the hustle and bustle some attack shopping with vigor, while others put aside differences and offer words of good cheer.

A recent example of the latter occurred during the East Oregonian Christmas party. After having to miss last years gala event, I was looking forward to kicking back with some of my Pendleton colleagues during our Dec. 6 gathering at Hamley Slickfork Saloon.

I donned my festive New York Yankees Santa hat and climbed aboard fellow reporter Anna Willards red GMC Canyon pickup not exactly Santas sleigh, but we flew there just in time for tasty treats, the EOs version of Family Feud (Picture it: Managing Editor Skip Nichols in the role of Richard Dawson) and a silly White Elephant game.

When we arrived, EO Publisher Tom Brown greeted me with a hello and a handshake.

I like your hat, he said with a smile.

No you dont, I responded. Youre a Red Sox fan.

Silent for but a moment, he said I was right. In fact, he said, he probably had a hat somewhere in his possession that said, Yankees Suck. We shared a laugh and talked about the historic rivalry between Boston and New York. And by the way, just for the record, regardless of holiday cheer, I will never use the words like in any way, shape or form connected with the Red Sox.

Anyway, throughout the month Ive had the opportunity to renew acquaintances and attend a variety of holiday functions. The thing I enjoy most is seeing the joy and wonderment on childrens faces as they excitedly talk about the anticipated arrival of Santa Claus.

Just for fun, I like to ask if theyve been naughty or nice. Most children instantly blurt out theyve been nice, some hesitantly say theyve been good, but look to their parents for reassurance. In one instance, I had a young boy, with tears starting to puddle in his eyes, tell me that hed been really good and was hoping to visit his grammy.

Hearing that young boy express a desire to spend time with family was music to my ears. Thats what the holiday season is all about.

Sure, I remember some particularly cool gifts Ive received over the years, but the fondest memory I treasure is a family tradition we had growing up. With my mom, pops and brotherman, wed sit around the kitchen table on Christmas Eve playing board games. As competitive as Ive always been, it didnt really matter who won we were all together as a family.

Tammy Malgesini is the EO community editor. Her column, Inside my shoes, includes general musings about life. You can reach her at tmalgesini@eastoregonian.com or 541-564-4539.