MINNEAPOLIS — Christmas celebrations look different, depending on whose doorstep you're at.
This year, Brenda Jarosiewicz's Lake Elmo home was filled with loved ones from Mexico. On Christmas Eve, her countertops filled quickly with traditional dishes. Ponche, tres leches and ensalada de manzana were among them.
"This is happiness; we don't get together often," she said joyfully. "This is the third time in 17 years we got together for Christmas. Now we are together, my mom is here, my sister, and her family."
Her house was decorated with presents, a tree and her mother's crocheted nativity set. But she said all those things aren't what make the holiday special.
"As long as we are together, we are home," she said. "So this is a very special Christmas."
Jarosiewicz's family had plans to open presents Christmas morning, but another Twin Cities family had different plans.
Lulu Ethio-Vegan was one of the only businesses open on Christmas Day.
Lidia Ephrem, 13, is one of four kids helping out their mom and business owner, T.G Feyisa.
"I don't mind at all, it's nice to see different families come by," she said.
Feyisa opened up her restaurant in Stevens Square a month ago after working in health care for decades. She says it's a dream that wouldn't have been possible without her children's gift of support.
"I'm very blessed; they're really great kids," she said, "Having business is not easy. It could be hard, but they always say, 'Mommy, you can do it. You're strong.' So that's what makes me emotional."
Gifts come in all shapes and sizes, just look under the tree of Jeffrey and Ashley Aguy.
The couple celebrated with four generations of their family complete with dozens of presents for everyone. But their son, 3-year-old Maverick Aguy, surely got most of them.
"This is just what I needed!" he exclaimed as he opened up a new tablet.
His mom and dad are grateful they can spoil him, but what makes their hearts full is knowing he gets to spend the holiday with his new baby brother.
"We didn't know if he would make it through," said Ashley Aguy. "My pregnancy was at risk. I'm so grateful for him."
While their family was opening presents, Ashley and Jeffrey teased one another over who should hold 6-week-old Alexander. He was asleep in his dad's arms and only woke up after the last present was opened.
"This is your first Christmas, buddy!" said Jeffrey, as he rocked his new son to sleep.
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