8-Bit Christmas

In 2021, Jake Doyle shares fond Christmas memories with his daughter, Annie. He reflects on the pivotal year of 1988 that shaped his childhood and sense of ambition.

Jake recalls the burning desire to own a Nintendo Entertainment System, which represented freedom from peer pressure. The console became a symbol of status, especially in a school dominated by Timothy Keane, the richest kid.

Young Jake and his friends often gathered outside Timothy's house, hoping for a chance to play Nintendo. This routine soon turned wearisome as they had to beg for a mere glimpse of the games, creating a notable rivalry.

The situation with Timmy escalated when an outburst led to destroyed television screens and an injured family dog. This incident pushed Jake to search for a way to claim the coveted NES for himself.

As Christmas approached, Jake’s friends motivated him to enter a Scout fundraiser that offered the NES as a top prize. Fueled by hope, Jake’s excitement grew, seeing a chance to realize his dream.

Jake’s sister, Lizzy, had her own ambitions for the season, specifically, a Cabbage Patch Kids doll. In a show of sibling love, Jake agreed to help her in exchange for tips on how to sell holiday wreaths to fund his own quest.

While searching for dolls, Jake unexpectedly discovered an underground market that could provide a Cabbage Patch doll. However, this path came with the realization that it demanded a hefty price.

Refusing to give in to defeat, Jake and his friends devised a plan to combine their resources to buy their own Nintendo. They orchestrated a clever scheme to carry out their mission against Timmy.

Jake's excitement reached new heights when he finally made it to the game store, only to have tragedy strike. A school bus crushed his hard-earned Nintendo, shattering his dreams in an instant.

Amid his disappointment, Jake encountered a wise Cabbage Patch dealer who reminded him about the true spirit of Christmas. This pivotal moment taught him that the holiday's essence lies in giving and sharing with others.

On Christmas morning, Jake discovered a beautifully constructed tree fort made by his father, John, instead of the anticipated Nintendo. This surprise turned into a profound lesson about love and the real gifts in life.

As Jake grew up, he eventually acquired a Nintendo through hard work during the summer. This fulfillment echoed the values he learned about effort and the significance of what truly mattered.

Jake shares his cherished memories with his daughter, inviting her to explore the tree fort. This adventure signifies the bond created by family and the legacy of love passed down from his father.

As the family gathers for dinner, they cherish their time together while remembering absent loved ones. John's empty chair serves as a poignant reminder of his lasting impact and influence on their lives.