WHAT A GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD WE LIVE IN

WHAT A GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD WE LIVE IN! Most wonderful time of the year!

Hello there friends and neighbors, I’m back! I want to give a shout out to our amazing community director, Susan Comisky, for stepping in for me last month while I was busy with some work and personal stu . I couldn’t ask for a better person to sub in for me!

Because it’s been a minute (a month) since I’ve seen y’all, let’s just catch up a little, shall we?

As some of you know, I’ve lived in Baldwin Park since 2011, minus a brief stint in downtown. We’ve lived in the apartments at Enders and in a City Home over by Grace Hopper, but this is our rst year in a single-family home and let me just say, Halloween was wild! I mean, it had always been “busy” in the townhomes, but this was no joke. We went through about 1,000 pieces of candy in just about two hours, which equates to about 400-ish kids, give or take. While my best friend was the candy guard — only allowing two pieces per kid — I’m sure there were some who sneaked. But still, that’s a lot of candy!

And because I wanted to make sure we were a fun house, I made sure the adults were well taken care of with some “adult juice” to help them keep their momentum as they followed the little ones throughout Baldwin Park. A couple of our friends who live in condos downtown came over, we had some drinks and a nice charcuterie board, and just had a blast. It was great to see my little street come alive with everyone out on their porches enjoying the night. One of my neighbors even had a legit DUNK TANK! As we were packing everything up, we were already planning ahead for next year, because we obviously have to go bigger. … Did I mention the dunk tank?!

Transitioning from Halloween to Thanksgiving is where I’m at as I write this article. Andrew and I have been hosting Thanksgiving at our house since we bought our old townhouse back in 2015 — deep fried turkey and all. Even though we did it for the rst time in this house last year, after moving in about 10 days prior, this year feels di erent. I’m feeling a little more stressed about it for some reason. I’m sure everything will go o without a hitch, but you never do know these days.

Then obviously, we roll right into the holidays, which I am super excited for, as always. There’s just something so special about Baldwin Park this time of year. Downtown Baldwin Park is all lit up, the houses and businesses go all out with their décor, and even though people are running around like crazy getting ready for parties, gift exchanges and guests, everyone just seems a little happier. There’s also just so much to do this time of year, not just in Baldwin but throughout Central Florida.

Obviously, the event I am most excited about is the Winter Wonderland Extravaganza, taking place Dec. 3 in Downtown Baldwin Park (which might have already happened if you aren’t reading this the rst day you get it). I know, I know — there he goes with the shameless plug again — but it really is such an awesome event. It feels like the entire neighborhood comes out to just enjoy the performances, parade and, of course, the tree lighting. It’s also a great opportunity to share our neighborhood with your family in friends and to make new friends with fellow Baldwin Parkers you may not know.

The rest of December is all-hands-on-deck with parties, shopping, guests, travel and planning. But despite the craziness, it’s important to remember that this time of year is all about: Family, friends and the joy that those bring us. I always like to take a day for myself in December, just to re ect on the year that’s own by and the one that’s in front of us. A nice walk around Lake Baldwin is a great way to spend some “me time” when you WILL CAMPBELL need it, and don’t be ashamed of needing it. The holidays are a PRESIDENT lot. Not everyone is in the same BALDWIN PARK JOINT boat, either — some have much COMMITTEE rockier waters than others, so it’s important to remember that as we’re out and about this time of year. In the words of the incomparable Oprah Winfrey, “May this season nd you among those you love, sharing in the twin glories of generosity and gratitude.” I hope that the holiday season brings each of you happiness, laughter, fun and joy with those that you love most in this world. I am beyond grateful to be a part of this community and to be able to be here with you each month. I can’t wait to see what the new year has in store for us. Until next year, stay safe, stay well, and remember: We Are Baldwin Park!

Broker Associate / ® Realtor 407-399-0629

ben@bencole.org

378727-1