Martinez family

For the Martinez family, this Christmas is one of firsts — first Christmas in Vian, first winter in Oklahoma, and hopefully, their first white Christmas together.

After moving from Arizona to Sequoyah County this past July, the family of four is excited to create new traditions in their new home.

“It’s a big change, but a good one,” says Maria Martinez, as she carefully unpacks boxes of Christmas decorations. “In Arizona, we didn’t get much of a winter — certainly no snow. The kids are already hoping for a snow day!”

Maria, her husband Daniel, and their two children, 8-year-old Emma and 2-year-old Luke, made the move after Daniel accepted a job in Fort Smith, Ark. earlier this year. While the transition brought challenges—like adjusting to a new community and unpacking endless moving boxes — the family says they’ve felt right at home in Vian.

“The people here have been so welcoming,” Daniel says. “We’ve met neighbors who brought over fresh veggies and even helped us learn about local places to take the kids. It’s been a great place to settle down.”

The Martinez kids, who spent most of their lives surrounded by desert landscapes, are fascinated by the changing seasons. Emma proudly taped her paper snowflakes to the windows while Luke has been looking out the window, checking the weather forecast daily.

“If it snows, we’re going to build the biggest snowman ever!” Emma says excitedly.

Maria, who works from home as a graphic designer, has been making sure their first Christmas in Oklahoma feels extra special. The family picked out their first real Christmas tree at a nearby farm and even joined a local holiday craft fair to meet others in the community.

“I’ve always dreamed of a Christmas where we’re bundled up, drinking hot cocoa, and watching the snow fall,” Maria says. “It’s something we never got in Arizona, and I think it’s part of what makes this move feel magical for us.”

Daniel agrees, adding that this holiday season is about slowing down and appreciating the time together as a family.

“We’re thankful for this fresh start,” he says. “After a busy year of moving, settling in, and starting new jobs and schools, it feels good to just be together.”

As Christmas approaches, the Martinez family is planning to bake cookies, watch holiday movies, and take a drive through nearby neighborhoods to see the lights. Most of all, they’re holding out hope for that white Christmas.

“It doesn’t have to be a lot,” Emma chimes in, “just enough to catch on our tongues!”

The Martinez family’s first Christmas in Vian may be new and different, but it’s already filled with warmth, laughter and hope. Whether the snow falls or not, one thing is certain: they’re home for the holidays, and that’s what matters most.

Just Folks is Your TIMES way of honoring the regular people of Sequoyah County, recognizing their unique talents, personalities, jobs, abilities, etc. Your TIMES appreciates the cooperation of each Just Folks and the public’s nominations for this feature. If you know of someone you think might be a good story, contact Amie at 918-775-4433.