Photographed by Cassandra Tomei
THE GEBRAN FAMILY George; Abeer; Talia, 5; and Zaina, 3
With his four brothers, George Gebran owns the Valley’s popular U.S. Egg restaurants. So it’s no surprise that a big breakfast spread is as part of his family’s Christmas morning tradition as opening presents in pajamas.
What’s your favorite holiday tradition?
George: Christmas morning breakfast is my favorite tradition. It’s every Gebran’s favorite tradition because it’s the one time a year we eat breakfast together. We’re usually serving our guests breakfast. We all show up in our pajamas, eat a big breakfast feast, open presents and play board games. We fight and make up, watch movies, and then pass out on the couch, waiting for lunch. It’s great.
Do you have any travel plans this season?
George: No. We like to stay at home over the holidays. It is a great time for all of us to be together since we work so hard during the year. My sister and her family will fly in, though, to visit us.
What’s the greatest holiday gift you have received?
George: The homemade gifts from the kids always bring the biggest smiles. Last year, I received a pencil holder made from an old water bottle and a letter opener made from a butter knife. Those are the best gifts.
What are you looking most forward to this season?
George: It’s all about the children: decorating the outside of the house, making cookies, wrapping presents, watching classic Christmas movies and setting up the nativity scene. The Polar Express in Williams is on our list this year as well.
What’s been your fondest holiday memory?
George: It was 1985, I was 12-years-old and we had more than 70 family members reunite at my aunt’s house for Christmas dinner/weekend. My newly befriended extended cousins and I played football and stuffed our faces for four days straight. We still talk and reflect about that weekend.
How does having children shape the holidays?
George: We were married for five years before having children and those Christmas seasons were great. However, once we had children, it only got better and more exciting. We now have our own traditions combined with both of our families’ traditions. And for some reason, Talia and Zaina are super well-behaved all month, so that really helps shape the holidays. Thanks St. Nick!
What is on your wish list?
Talia: A pink pony and a pink grocery cart.
Zaina: A pink pony and a pink baby stroller.
Favorite holiday…
Song: I love all Christmas music, except anything to do with Alvin and the Chipmunks!
Food: Turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie.
Film: “It’s a Wonderful Life” starring James Stewart.
Decoration: The girls made some Christmas ornaments at school that make the house and tree shine.
