Collinwood Christmas Memories

I lived in Collinwood for many years as a child growing up on Royal Road and then raising a family here also. Working for the Collinwood & Nottingham Villages Development Corporation for the past few years, has kept me close and truly in touch with the area. Even though I have moved from the neighborhood, I still belong to Holy Redeemer Church and my family and and spiritual roots are so deeply embedded here, I will always feel connected to Collinwood. 

I can never forget the beautiful Christmases of the past; the family gatherings, the tree, the presents, the school pageants and the warmth of loved ones on Christmas morning. I can still see the many lights strung across St. Clair and crisscrossing "Five Points" as my dad drove us to relatives' homes for Christmas eve dinners or parties with his old neighborhood friends.  How our eyes sparkled when Santa entered the room and gave us the toys from his sack. Years later, my own sons were blessed with this memory and tradition that continued with the next generation. Our church guitar choir often sang for Christmas events. One year we stood in the middle of Euclid Square Mall and watched my youngest son dressed as the "Little Drummer Boy" posing uncomfortably as we happily sang that tune among others.

So many memories, so many heartwarming thoughts of this neighborhood come rushing back at this time of the year.  I am grateful for the chance to still work and experience it all with CNVDC.  Our best wishes and prayers for this holiday season go out to everyone.  So from Yolanda, Mike, Jayme and myself, may your Christmas be warm and bright and your New Year filled with hope and love.