Haddon Heights Celebrates Holiday Season with Community Events and Festivities

In Haddon Heights, New Jersey, Kristin Corson-Ricci has transformed her childhood home into a cherished family abode, especially during the holiday season. With a simple yet meaningful Christmas tree adorned with lights and personalized ornaments, the decorations reflect a rich tapestry of family history. Among the ornaments are gold balls bearing the names and years of her children—Emily, Sophia, and Nick—alongside her own childhood moniker, Krissy, dating back to 1978.

Corson-Ricci, a physician liaison, has deep roots in the community. She purchased the three-bedroom home in 2002 from her parents, Phyllis and Rodger Corson, and has since updated the space to accommodate her family’s needs. After adding a family room, primary bedroom, and enclosed the porch for an office, Corson-Ricci continued to honor her family’s legacy in her renovations.

However, a serious setback occurred in 2022 when a significant flooding incident devastated the home. After returning from a brief vacation, she found that workers repairing the heating system had left water running, resulting in extensive damage to the oak floors, walls, and furnishings. Despite the situation, valuable family heirlooms, including photo albums, holiday collectibles, and books remained unharmed, as they were stored in dry areas of the house.

Throughout the renovation process, Corson-Ricci faced pressure from professionals who suggested demolishing the structure altogether. She, however, was resolute about restoring her home, and with the assistance of Reliance Contracting, she embarked on a comprehensive renovation. The new layout features an open-concept design, merging the dining room, kitchen, and breakfast nook into a cohesive and modern space, which is now adorned with minimalist decor suitable for entertaining.

This year, Corson-Ricci showcased the results of her labor by opening her home to over 400 attendees of the annual Haddon Heights Library Holiday House Tour. Visitors admired not only the contemporary enhancements but also the cherished family items that graced her home, such as vintage china plates and heartfelt decorations from decades past. Engaging the community further, Corson-Ricci incorporated playful elements to entertain young guests during the tour, like hiding miniature elves throughout her home.

As the holiday season unfolds, Corson-Ricci stands as a testament to resilience and the enduring spirit of home and family, proving that love, history, and a strong sense of community can triumph over adversity. Her story is a beacon of hope for many facing similar challenges, reinforcing the notion that a house is more than a structure; it is a haven filled with memories, traditions, and love.

For those looking to share similar stories or showcase their homes, nominations can be sent via email, accompanied by digital photographs, to properties@inquirer.com.

This narrative embodies the profound connection between home and family, underscoring that the past can beautifully coexist with modernity—a sentiment applicable to many as they navigate their own unique journeys.

Media News Source