As a historic, Kansas City landmark, The Raphael Hotel is rooted in tradition. And since 1975, it has won the hearts of many who seek a unique holiday tradition with family and friends - a place where they can revel in the magic of the Country Club Plaza while embarking on meaningful family traditions. This holiday season, three longtime hotel guests shared special memories, holiday stories and family traditions passed down from generation to generation. This is part two of three. Part 2: Holiday Tradition for Three Generations Over the last 32 years, Tom and Mary Dailey of Leawood, Kansas, and three generations of their family, have celebrated the holidays at The Raphael Hotel. The tradition started over Thanksgiving in 1986 with their then 13-year-old daughter Maggie. Now, every Thanksgiving, Maggie and her family share the tradition, along with several other relatives and close friends. The Dailey's Thanksgiving holiday at The Raphael has become a favorite tradition of not just their immediate family, but most of those near and dear to them. 'Visiting The Raphael means so much about family and being with those you love the most,' said Mary. 'Over the years, as we have lost and gained family members and friends, our circle continues to grow and change -- nieces and nephews are now bringing their partners or spouses to join us, and they all look forward to it so much.' When asked about their favorite holiday tradition, Mary said it is difficult to identify just one, as the holiday has evolved so much over the years, just as the hotel and the Country Club Plaza has evolved. 'In 1986, we had one large guest room for Tom, Maggie and I,' said Mary. 'After having dinner at the hotel, friends and family began to join us in our room for the Plaza lights, a champagne toast, and a party that has grown over the years,' said Mary. 'Now, we always stay in the two-bedroom suite.' From hotel bellmen Rick and Bob's welcoming greeting, to the gracious front desk staff, and the servers at Chaz, Mary said 'it feels very much like coming home every time we step foot in The Raphael, even though it may have been some time since we last visited.' Thank you to Tom and Mary for sharing their story!  Â
