Day 126

9/17/22

Close-knit neighborhoods are not dinosaurs...they still exist!

Sam loves looking out at the football field and seems to be truly mesmerized by the activities that are present everywhere he looks. Neighbors walking by with a wave and greeting. Other friends come to sit on the front porch for a visit. Children on bikes all know the dogs by name and even cars honk with a wave out the window. It is truly Lake Wobegon at its best!

Lilly and Ranger have a real fan base and Gus is not far behind. Sam is also gathering his admirers and gets picked up more than any dog I have ever loved. They all landed in a wonderful place!

We live on Christian Hill in Anoka, named for the number of churches that once adorned many a corner. I recently realized that I am the oldest member of the neighborhood from long ago. That makes me somewhat of an historian and also makes me feel REALLY ancient!

This evening, we attended a birthday party for one of the 20 plus young children who have recently called this neighborhood home. It was delightful, adorable and fun. When a little one was approaching disaster for any reason at all, there were always extra hands to help and avoid catastrophe. It all made me realize how fortunate we are to still live in a community where everyone knows their neighbor (and their dogs).

One night, not too long ago, a youngster seemed to go missing and within five minutes, the entire community was out in force! Holding young children's hands, dogs on leashes and phones crackling the waves, we all rallied to find this boy. He did turn up at home, snuggled under some blankets. Thank goodness! With a collective sigh of relief, we all headed home, but our bond had grown even stronger.

Storms, sickness, celebrations and so much more keep us tethered to one another and grows the heart of the neighborhood. We all care about each other and wouldn't hesitate to ask for, or offer, help at a moment's notice.

Is this unusual? I hope not. If it is, I know the fix.

Caring, sharing and a big dose of support for those living around you will create life-long bonds. As I walk my dogs around other areas, I see the same vestiges of our little piece of Lake Wobegon. That warms my heart!