Also throughout the week, each day seemed to bring some upsetting or sad news from friends and family. I was buzzing buying sympathy cards, get well cards, and assisting people with a variety of tasks that seemed to need immediate attention. Then I learned my next door neighbor passed away. I don’t know the couple well, but still, I thought I had better do something, or as a good Italian would say, I’d better cook something! After a quick look in my pantry and I figured I’d throw some ingredients in the bread maker and whip up a loaf at 6 am before flying out the door.
Instead I rang the bell and ended up spending an hour with Rhoda, most definitely the longest conversation we’ve ever had. She told me about her 68 year marriage, her grand kids, places she’s lived and of course some juicy neighborhood gossip. We talked about how and the sense of community in neighborhoods has been lost over the years and how much people really crave it.