Letter from the editor
There are moments during the holiday season that instantly transport us back to childhood — the sound of a familiar song, the sweet scent of freshly baked cookies, the feeling that something magical is about to happen. For me, one of those moments is standing on a train platform, bundled against the cold, waiting to board the Santa Express.
Each December, the Cape Seashore Lines Santa Express pulls into the Richland and Tuckahoe train stations, bringing with it far more than passengers. It carries tradition, nostalgia and a sense of shared joy that reminds us why experiences matter more than things. There is an unmistakable energy in the air before the train leaves the station. Children shifting with excitement, parents smiling knowingly, grandparents taking it all in. Everyone seems to understand they are part of something special.
This year, I had the opportunity to ride this magical train on a Sunday evening with families from our nonprofit organization, which serves families with autism and developmental disabilities. It was an experience that felt especially meaningful. A gentle snowfall dusted the tracks, adding to the anticipation and wonder. When the train finally departed, its vintage cars glowing with Christmas lights, the excitement was unmistakable.
Stepping aboard felt like entering another world. Carols drifted through the coaches, laughter echoed, and faces lit up with pure joy. For a little while, the outside world faded away. The ride became a pause button in an otherwise busy season — a chance to slow down, sing along, laugh freely and simply be present with the people beside us.
Watching the smiles and excitement unfold filled Bob and me with overwhelming joy. Carrying this organization forward in honor of our late son, Jamie, made the experience even more profound. Moments like these remind us why we do this work and how powerful shared joy can be. We were filled with gratitude — for the opportunity, for the families, and for the simple magic of togetherness.
That same feeling carries through many of our favorite local traditions. Whether it’s riding the Santa Express, strolling through the twinkling lights at Historic Smithville, or revisiting the wonder of Storybook Land during the holidays, these experiences remind us what truly matters. Time spent with loved ones is the greatest gift of all. Children and grandchildren grow up faster than we ever expect, and each year seems to move a little more quickly than the last.
There’s a line from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off that often comes to mind: “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” The holidays give us permission to do just that — to slow down and notice. The small pauses we intentionally carve out amid the hustle and bustle become the memories we carry with us, far more valuable than anything wrapped in paper and ribbon.
Holiday magic doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it’s as simple as the sound of a train whistle, a familiar song, and a community coming together to celebrate the season.
Thank you, as always, for picking up Shore Local and for supporting the stories that celebrate where we live, the people who make it special, and the traditions that bring us together.
Peace & Love,
Cindy
