Being Neighborly



Today, unlike most days, I was able to venture out to the market kid free!  Now don't get me wrong, I love taking the kids with me.  Well, uhhh...do I really, hehehe.  So today before I left, I spruced myself up and was looking pretty good, if I might say so myself.

While at the market, I took extra time as I perused each section.  Instead of grabbing the usual brand and jetting off with my cart, I paused, took a deep breath and looked at other brands around me as well.  How nice this was! 

As I began to wrap up my shopping, I realized that I forgot the OJ and had to go clear back to the other side of the store.  Has that ever happened to you?  Oh, good it's not just me!  As I was taking my tiny baby steps ( I decided to wear heels to the store)  I unexpectedly spotted my neighbors husband.  “Oh no" I thought to myself.  "Just keep going; act like you don't even see them.” I pushed my cart faster and began to twist my head from side to side in confusion.  'Oh, I can't find what I’m looking for.” The next second, I began to pass Joyce.  I made my way to the OJ section.  The kind gentleman asked me if I was finding everything ok.  Turns out, they didn't even have the OJ I was looking for. FYI Raley’s in Loomis does not carry organic OJ!  After he told me this I nodded and thanked him for his help.  Then, I stopped. What the heck was I doing?  Why did I ignore Jim and Joyce?  I am always talking about getting to know your neighbors and begin all neighborly and stuff and then I ignore mine?

And so I had to do it.  I had to backtrack and find them.  Sure enough I did.  They were in the baking isle.  In a matter of milliseconds I found my mind wandering into their country home, envying her country wisdom and skills.  Realizing she is from an era that is just beginning to die out.  Wanting to make the connection with her I smile.   “Jim, Joyce good to see you!" They stop.  They smile.  "Hi.  Are you our neighbor?"  Remember, I told you that I spruced up and all, so I think Jim and Joyce had a hard time recognizing me.  They began to tell me about the unexpected loss of their daughter.  I also found out about her memorial service in Idaho.  Even the details of their Thanksgiving were shared with me.  I found out that this year they used paper plates and paper napkins for the first time.  Joyce reminded me that she had five children and that she had conceived one every year!  I soon was reminded about the wealth of wisdom and knowledge right next door to me.  Joyce knew all too well the joys and sorrows of motherhood. 

As I wrapped things up with them and daintily hobbled away, I was thankful that I decided to make the connection with them.  This time of year if you don't feel particularly festive, why not start next door?