Invite the neighbors to come on over! My phone is full of smiley faces, confetti, and hearts. The neighborhood text thread is full of love. Why? We got together for a chili party Saturday night. It’s Monday and the friendly glow continues.
We didn’t do anything spectacular. The theme was chili. Everybody was to bring their own drinks and something to eat. We’d meet in the alley. When the weather offered possible thunderstorms and a tornado watch, we moved from the alley to a house. No one became disgruntled. Everyone adjusted and came away feeling lucky to live where we live.
We’re ready to plan a Halloween event. Can it be that simple to spread good will? Maybe. Possibly. Probably. Why not try it?
I’ve lived in all sorts of neighborhoods. My two favorite are my current two – my house location and a long-term RV park. Both share a common characteristic – the neighbors care about each other.
It could be true where you live. It takes a little effort to find out, but not that much. Starts with hello, get a phone number, and play it by ear. Calling, “Come on Over!” when you see someone out in the yard can be extremely effective. And it doesn’t hurt to have the bar stocked and some cheese and olives on hand.
I always have something gluten-free I can throw on a plate. And I try to make sure I can offer something non-dairy and plant based if someone stops by. But more instrumental to getting together versus staying separate is to let go of expectations, keep it simple, and just do it. If it doesn’t happen today, try again in a few.
On my block, we have ages ranging from 20s to 80s. We hang out together in various configurations on a regular basis. We have snowball fights, go sledding, celebrate New Years and take food to each other when someone is sick. No one is trying to be heroic. We just value each other and enjoy the camaraderie.
It took household two years of invitations to feel comfortable attending an event, but prior to that, we exchanged food, and recipes, and said hello on the street. Once they finally came, they loved it! We knew they would, but patience is sometimes required.
Food and cooking are important, but social connection is as well. I highly recommend leaving your screen conversations to sit on a porch, share some noshes, and listen to stories. In-person interaction feeds our spirit. And it gives us a chance to learn that we like sloe gin, need a recipe for corn pudding, and love hummus mixed with tzatziki.
Talk long enough and you may find a new workout partner, writing coach, newsletter editor, or babysitter. The upside of hanging with the neighbors is limitless. Next time you see your neighbors outside, take a chance and invite them to come on over!