The Digest | New Jersey Magazine
Issue link: https://magazines.vuenj.com/i/1547447
22 VUENJ.COM A sweet illustration capturing a special night in NYC with my girl at the Rockettes' Opening Night, November 2025. A memory I'll cherish forever. D E A R R E A D E R , Frank Sinatra's Christmas music is playing in the background, the turkey is in the oven, the kids are loud, and family is arriving from all over. e beautiful chaos of the holidays is officially here! 'Tis the season for my favorite everything! Although, I still can't decide whether anksgiving or Christmas takes the top spot. I love it all, from baking with my kids (and probably making enough cookies for the neighbors), decorating, finding the perfect gis, and most of all, watching someone's face light up when they open something special. I've always found more joy in giving than receiving. In fact, I won't be making it to my annual Rockettes show this year, so I gied my tickets to my mom and her girlfriends. Knowing they'll enjoy a little holiday magic makes me just as happy! is year, however, the holidays feel a little different. I recently lost my Uncle Roger, who was like a second father to me and someone my children adored. His passing has reminded me just how quickly life can change and how precious our time together truly is. So this season, I'm making a conscious effort to slow down, put my phone away, let the little things go, and be fully present with Jason, my children, and the people I love most. Sometimes, the moments we take for granted turn out to be the ones that mean everything. As we close out another year at VUE, I'm feeling especially grateful. To do something I love every day is a gi in itself, but to do it alongside such an incredible team makes it that much more special. I'm so proud of what we've created together, including this year's holiday cover! Our team had a little fun with a vintage-inspired design that captures all the nostalgia and old-fashioned charm I love about this season. Inside this issue, you'll find thoughtfully curated gis, beautiful destinations, inspiring individuals, and plenty of holiday inspiration. Whether you're planning your next getaway or simply enjoying a quiet moment with the magazine, I hope these pages bring a little extra joy to your season. ank you to our readers for continuing to be part of the VUE family. Your support means more than you know. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have cookies to bake, presents to wrap, and plenty of vintage Christmas records to listen to. Wishing you and your family a beautiful holiday season! JA M I E- R A E L AWRENCE Ed i to r- i n - C h i ef & C reative D ire ctor A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF VUENJ.COM

