I love my neighborhood. Not only are the old houses full of charm, the people in them are charming as well.
This is the neighborhood where I borrow a cup of sugar - and don't feel awkward. It's the neighborhood where kids run across yards & in and out of backyards - and I know all is well. My neighborhood is where the Moms panic together when we can't find one of the kids, and where we all stand on the sidewalk and cry when we find out it was all a misunderstanding and that sweetie was completely safe all along - and I feel warm knowing everyone would do the same if it had been my kiddo.
Mr. Kid Chaser and I moved to the block not knowing anyone in the neighborhood and now wonder how we'd ever leave. At first, I was shy to get to know folks on the block, but after the birth of my son, I knocked boldly on each door to introduce myself. I organized a neighborhood map of phone numbers and emails - many folks didn't want to participate, but those that did were happy to have the opportunity to connect.
My husband and I also started a yearly tradition of a rootbeer float party in our front yard at the start of summer. That party has now been moved to August for National Night Out. Folks bring their lawn chairs. Kids roll in the cool grass. It takes a village... and I'm grateful mine can rally around ice cream.
Do you know your neighbors? Your first introduction doesn't have to be grand. Look here for info. on Salem's National Night Out and plan a gathering of your own. Those awkward intros & swapped phone numbers can grow into true friendships: It's truly part of what makes a house a home.
This is the neighborhood where I borrow a cup of sugar - and don't feel awkward. It's the neighborhood where kids run across yards & in and out of backyards - and I know all is well. My neighborhood is where the Moms panic together when we can't find one of the kids, and where we all stand on the sidewalk and cry when we find out it was all a misunderstanding and that sweetie was completely safe all along - and I feel warm knowing everyone would do the same if it had been my kiddo.
Mr. Kid Chaser and I moved to the block not knowing anyone in the neighborhood and now wonder how we'd ever leave. At first, I was shy to get to know folks on the block, but after the birth of my son, I knocked boldly on each door to introduce myself. I organized a neighborhood map of phone numbers and emails - many folks didn't want to participate, but those that did were happy to have the opportunity to connect.
My husband and I also started a yearly tradition of a rootbeer float party in our front yard at the start of summer. That party has now been moved to August for National Night Out. Folks bring their lawn chairs. Kids roll in the cool grass. It takes a village... and I'm grateful mine can rally around ice cream.
Do you know your neighbors? Your first introduction doesn't have to be grand. Look here for info. on Salem's National Night Out and plan a gathering of your own. Those awkward intros & swapped phone numbers can grow into true friendships: It's truly part of what makes a house a home.