I love my neighborhood. It’s small, quaint and in my mind, adorable. The houses are cottage sized with good-sized garages and well kept lawns. Sidewalks connect all the homes and lovely wood fences keep all the backyards nicely separated.

I know everyone on my block and most of their pets by name. We see each other on evening walks around the neighborhood and at local gatherings. Often times we just meet on someone’s front lawn to discuss the day and recent happenings in our lives. Children and dogs are also found running in packs at these spontaneous gatherings, which adds to all the fun and joy.

A few months ago, a For Sale sign went up at the house across the street. Our neighbors were moving. And so began the showings and people in and out, looking at the house. Eventually, a SOLD banner replaced the For Sale sign and things change at the house.

Boxes were taken in empty and brought out full and taped shut. Some furniture was given away and some was set out on the curb. A party was given and attended by everyone on the block. A van came to move all the big appliances and furniture. Many trips were made in the truck and the car to move everything else.

After several weeks, the house was empty. All alone. The only unoccupied house in the neighborhood. Sort of lonesome looking, but full of the potential of new owners.

We waited for new cars to show up. And they did. We waited for a moving van to show up. And it did. We waited for new people to show up. And they did.

New parents, new children, new pets, new furniture. All are moved in across the street. Starting a new life in a house on our block.

Today I’m making banana bread to take over and welcome the new family to the old neighborhood. I’ve seen they have three children and one boy looks to be about ten years old.

My ten year old grandson Mac is going to be so excited to make a new friend!