I have been overwhelmed by hospitality. Friends and family have so generously poured into us (might have to save that for another post), along with a more unexpected subject – my own neighborhood. 

In 2019, Philip and I got married and I moved into the townhouse he recently bought for us. I was excited about a new community. A cute neighborhood filled with rows of 3-story narrow units. Going outside always resulted in passing someone new.

That fall, we got Hendo. Walking Hendo allowed me to meet so many new friends – dog owners especially. Almost every walk led to a new conversation (and dog friend for Hendo), leaving me socially filled up and excited for more. I prayed for more. Over time, conversations ranged from weather, food, dogs (of course), to family strains, religion, grief, and I became more aware that I was a confidant for some. I was excited that a simple “How are you doing?” could open up such personal conversations. 

It’s hard to comprehend that it’s been years of these friendships, and fast forward to now. These same dog-walking new friends threw me a baby shower about a month ago. Seven women all gathered at Pam’s house, and brought  home-cooked food and gifts. Unlike the usual brief, passing conversations outside with our dogs, we had the chance to sit, share a meal, and what felt like 30 minutes turned into 3 hours of hearty conversations around Pam’s ornately-decorated living room. Different ages, different backgrounds, connecting only through our proximities and canine companions. I felt so showered and undeserving. 

And now, gifts keep showing up at my door. Pam brought me flowers for Mother’s Day and made chicken enchiladas for us the first week we got home. She asked if she could share a photo of Emma in our townhouse neighborhood newsletter. Yogi brought me some leftover postpartum supplies (she just had a baby a few months ago), newborn outfits, and showed up last night with a homemade Indian dish. Lynn dropped off a board book for Emma and told me to call her if I need anything at all, even a walking buddy. Fernando and Sandy ordered me the last few things on my registry and have frequently checked in with me my entire pregnancy. Cheryl, from a few doors down, didn’t even know I was pregnant until recently, and still dropped off a present for Emma. 

Neighbors are such a gift. I’ve never felt more encouraged to ring someone’s doorbell.