Holiday Homeowner Highlight: Byron Center Edition

Welcome back to the enchanting world of Eastbrook Homes’ Homeowner Highlights series, where the warmth of the holiday season is radiating through our vibrant communities. Join us as we embark on a festive journey, meeting two wonderful families, Janet and Ryan from Cooks Crossing, and Ted and Cheryl from Preservation Lakes. 

These new members of the Eastbrook family invite you into their homes, sharing tales of holiday traditions, cherished decorations, and the joy of community. Whether it’s the excitement of a first holiday season in a new home or the anticipation of gatherings with loved ones, their stories capture the true essence of “home for the holidays.” 

Janet and Ryan

Janet and Ryan are recent additions to Cooks Crossing. This family-centric community is full of friendly neighbors that the couple is excited to spend the holidays with, and that their son can’t wait to make friends with. They’re looking forward to their first holiday season in their new home, and eagerly anticipate a family viewing of the Christmas lights strewn about the neighborhood!

When did you move into your Eastbrook Home? 

May 9, 2023 

What community do you live in? 

Cooks Crossing 

What has been your favorite thing about this community?

All the families and kids for our son to play with. We love all the new neighbors we’ve met. 

How do you celebrate the holidays in your home? 

We love putting up all of our decorations every year.  We put our tree up the day after Thanksgiving and then have simple traditions throughout the month of December; just various small things to look forward to.  

What is your holiday decoration inspiration?

I’d say just “family classic”.  We have lots of ornaments and other Christmas decor from the various vacations we’ve taken. One of my favorite things is picking out a Christmas ornament every time we travel someplace new! 

Are you hosting any holiday parties in your home? If so, what does that look like for you?

We usually host my husband’s family on Thanksgiving and then my family on Christmas Day. We have the traditional holiday foods and then usually exchange some gifts and play card or board games. 

What does “home for the holidays” mean to you?

I’d say just the ability to get together with friends and loved ones.  It doesn’t have to mean just spending time at a specific home but taking the time to spend with those you care about and love, wherever that happens to be.   

Are you planning on participating in any holiday event or activity in the greater community you’re now in? If so, which ones? 

Not a specific event but we usually take several different evenings and drive around and look at Christmas lights in the area.  We also usually take one evening and visit Santa with our son.  

Ted and Cheryl

Ted and Cheryl are close to marking a full year in their Eastbrook home, located in Preservation Lakes. The proximity to Brewer Park is perfect for their active lifestyle, and the waterfront views provide a great atmosphere for the large family gatherings that Ted and Cheryl have planned for the season. With Grand Rapids just 20 minutes away, the couple is excited to take advantage of the many holiday events hosted in the city!

When did you move into your Eastbrook Home? 

January 19-20, 2023

What community do you live in?

Preservation Lakes

What has been your favorite thing about this community? 

The friendliness of the neighborhood, the amenities we gather around, & the active family atmosphere.

How do you celebrate the holidays in your home?

In numerous and varied small social & larger family gatherings.

What is your holiday decoration inspiration? 

I love browsing online, but I mostly enjoy pulling colors and ideas together in my head. 

Are you hosting any holiday parties in your home? If so, what does that look like for you?  

We host small friend socials and large family dinners.

What does “home for the holidays” mean to you?  

Gathering with friends & family around the area, but also traditional Grand Rapids events like The Nutcracker and Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

Are you planning on participating in any holiday event or activity in the greater community you’re now in? If so, which ones?  

Company social events, Grand Rapids Ballet & holiday concerts. 

Any other memories or things that stand out to you about your Eastbrook Journey that you would like to share?  

Getting to know the community superintendent and area supervisor. They demonstrated professionalism and hard work to deliver on our home vision. 

Looking to spend your next holiday in an Eastbrook home? Get started designing your dream home today with Eastbrook Homes, or take advantage of one of our many move-in-ready homes. Explore the feature gallery on our website and tour a model home for design inspiration, then connect with us when you’re ready to start the building process!