Wishing my Lakewoodites Peace & Joy this Christmas!

[Ivor Karabatkovic]

Hey all-

Although I'm not really active on the Deck anymore, I wanted to take time to wish everyone and their families a Merry Christmas. I have many great memories of this time of year in Lakewood.

This time of year can be a tough time for those who are missing loved ones or are alone. If you've got a neighbor, make sure to greet them warmly and pass a bit of joy and appreciation their way. Lakewood's inclusivity is what makes it so different from all the other suburbs, and it's what I'll always cherish.

I'm sure you've all seen the Charlie Brown Christmas special dozens of times, but I wanted to share this clip. We live in fear of many things, but we all have something that lights us up and gives us great confidence. Linus carried his security blanket through the entire cartoon until he boldly proclaimed what Christmas is all about. When he starts reciting Luke 2 (which Charles Schulz fought to keep in before its release), and the angels come down to speak to the shepherds, the thoughtful Linus lets go of his blanket right as the angels say "fear not."



Coincidence or not? Learning about Schulz makes me think it's in there intentionally.

Have a Merry Christmas, Lakewood. You're alright in my book.

[Lori Allen _]

Hi Ivor,

Thank you for posting this. Peace and joy to your family as well.

[Jim O'Bryan]

Hey all-

Have a Merry Christmas, Lakewood. You're alright in my book.

Have a great Christmas, and an even better 2016.

Miss seeing you on the streets of Lakewood.

.

[Gary Rice]

Ivor,

Wishing you the very best of Christmas.

Looking forward to your next visit.

Merry Christmas!

[Alex Belisle]

I've heard a lot about you Ivor and it's all good. I'm glad to have been able to stand in your shoes and "catch the light" in Lakewood.