A Little Something Extra

Wow.  We received 49 blog entries for the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra's first Yuletide Celebration “Share Your Favorite Yuletide Memory” contest!  When the contest closed on Friday, Dec. 3 at 5 p.m., I admit, I dreaded picking the winner.   

These 49 submissions are heart-felt stories of family traditions, holiday cheer, inspiration, humor, generosity, loss, hope, love and musical memories.  The contest had no parameters or criteria; and I wouldn’t have it any other way.  We chose the winner based on the submission’s unique and descriptive story. 

And because I can’t sleep at night with just one winner, I chose some honorable mentions too. 

So here goes!

“Share Your Favorite Yuletide Memory” Contest

First Place:  “Yuletide Quarrels Being Won by a Child.”
By Jenny Settle
From the clever Christmas-themed title to the wonderfully descriptive story of Parker and Mason, we adored this post by Jenny Settle, the mom who marveled at bringing her teenage boys to Yuletide Celebration and didn’t care whether or not the boys were embarrassed by her outwardly expressive love of the show.  And it turns out, the boys have appreciated the family’s visits to Yuletide Celebration even if they didn’t appreciate sitting next to mom.  Great story – and nice photo!

My thoughts:  I’m a parent to two daughters. Just like Jenny, I’m never alarmed or saddened when my 8 year-old is embarrassed by my behavior (well, most of the time I suppose). Congratulations Jenny!  You win the big prize pack!  You’ll be receiving an email from me shortly about how to claim your prize.

Honorable Mentions
These winners will receive an autographed 25th anniversary Yuletide Celebration poster! Stay tuned for an email from me about how to pick up your special edition poster.

The “Going the Distance” Winner:  Kalleigh from Toronto, Canada.
My thoughts:  Even though she missed the deadline slightly, we give big snaps for traveling 440 miles to see Yuletide Celebration!

The “Hopeless Romantic” Winner:  Matthew Marshall and Rebecca Ude
My thoughts:  When you get down on one knee and propose to your special someone at the Hilbert Circle Theatre, we all tilt our heads, smile and sigh.

Best Photo:  Rebecca Ude
We love those un-posed, surprise shots.  And, again, it’s a marriage proposal.  *Sigh.*

Best “Sportsmanlike Behavior”:  Sharon Lightfoot.  
Especially now, we like references to the Indianapolis Colts.  They need all the good vibes they can get, right?

Best “Love of Music”:  Elaine Drake.
We have a soft spot for children who are inspired by symphony performances and go on to study music. These kids could one day be a part of our ensemble!

Thank you all for participating!

Have a wonderful holiday season, and please visit our ISO Blog often for more information and contests!