Jake Coppola Story Map by Jake Coppola

How appreciating things gets me more

jcoppola10 — 2024-10-28 12:49:28 UTC

One afternoon in New York City my dad and I were hungry from all the shopping we were doing. My dad and I always loved to shop in New York for some clothes or anything that caught our eye. After a little while we were getting hungry and started discussing what we wanted. We first were discussing pizza but after turning a corner both of us knew what we wanted when we saw this appealing yet subtle sandwich shop. When we walked in, both of us were already hooked due to its design. I remember how happy I was that my dad took me here, so I couldn't thank him enough. After browsing on the menu above the small bookshelf, there was one sandwich that stood out to me the most. A very upscaled BLT with pesto, mozzarella, fresh lettuce, mayo, bacon and really good Italian bread. It was a $17.00 sandwich, and when my family spends a lot of money on me I usually feel guilty. I was unsure if I should get it and My dad said “no go ahead Jake, you can get it”. This made me feel very happy and my dad showed me that I was worth it. The sandwich was very delicious but most importantly this moment with my dad in this sandwich shop is a very important moment in my life to me.

Christmas morning

jcoppola10 — 2024-10-30 12:28:21 UTC

Christmas morning as a child was always magical. the excitement would start the night before, trying to fall asleep with the anticipation of what Santa might bring. waking up to the smell of freshly baked cookies and the sight of beautifully decorated tree filled with twinkling lights was pure joy. The best part was rushing to the living room, finding a pile of presents, and tearing through the wrapping paper with my siblings. laughter, hugs, and the warmth of family made those mornings unforgettable

living room Christmas day

jcoppola10 — 2024-10-30 12:49:09 UTC

On Christmas Day, the living room becomes the heart of the celebration. The Christmas tree stands tall and radiant, covered in ornaments collected over the years. the scent of pine mixes with the aroma of holiday treats baking in the kitchen. stockings hang by the fireplace, each one filled to the brim with small surprises. The room is filled with laughter and the sound of Holiday music playing softly in the background. Family members gather around, sharing stories and creating new memories, making the day feel warm and special.

Grandparents Kitchen

jcoppola10 — 2024-11-01 12:50:34 UTC

Every family gathering we would pile into my grandparents kitchen stretching into the living room to gather around and share our stories. I have many happy memories with my family but this one in particular stands out to me the most. On a late Christmas eve, everyone is peaking over each other's shoulders to see the special surprises my grandparents would hand out. There was a tradition we would do every year while we were exchanging gifts. There was one present that was a special present, and we would all wear it with anticipation to see who would get that gift. What we were waiting to see was a small circular box. Some people knew who the gift was destined for and were ready to film it. I remember the time I got the box. It was a late Christmas eve, everyone was done handing gifts and it came to a silence as my grandpa said “wait, there is one more” his eyes glanced over at me indicating the gift was mine. The moment I saw the circular box I knew I was up for something good. I opened the box slowly trying to catch anyone attempting to film me. Once I finally opened it, I saw a collection of colorful and unique ties. It was a mix of delight and embarrassment. This is still a tradition we do today. This is a family tradition and I felt so special to finally experience it and most of my cousins would take this as a prank or a Joke where I take it as a funny yet thoughtful gift. Hearing the laughter of my aunts and uncles is as good as experiencing a good gift.