There are two great loves in my life: my flower garden and my quirky little neighborhood. If you are fortunate enough to know my roots, this will make perfect sense!...
How to Host a Storytelling Event
July 18th, 2023
Storytelling is as old as time. It’s how we share our history, wisdom, and experience with the world. Elders across the generations use storytelling to pass on the things they...
15 Ways to Welcome Your New Neighbors
June 27th, 2023
If you’ve ever had a new family move in near your home, you’ve had the chance to give them a welcome kit or welcome basket of some type. Do not...
Who Is Invited to the Potluck?
June 6th, 2023
While we may send out blanket event invitations to people in our neighborhood, the reality is the space we create communicates to folks if they belong or not. Here are...
The 50 Yard Challenge
May 30th, 2023
I grew up mowing lawns in my hometown of Ash Grove, Missouri. My dad provided me with a riding and trim mower that I could use to mow other yards,...
A DIY Project for Neighborly Greetings
May 18th, 2023
Chalkboard messages on the front porch are an easy, affordable way to add some personality to the neighborhood. They can be made using leftover building materials at little cost. MATERIALS:...
Let’s Be Front Porch People
April 28th, 2023
My neighborhood is waking up after the slumber of winter. The smell of pork steaks cooking over charcoal, heavy bass lines thumping from open cars windows, neighbor kids laughing during...
Won’t You Be My Neighbor Day
February 27th, 2023
A Beautiful Day in This Neighborhood “It’s a beautiful day in this neighborhood, A beautiful day for a neighbor. Would you be mine? Could you be mine?” nFred Rogers It...
In Memory of Jody Kretzmann
January 13th, 2023
On January 1, 2023, the world lost a man of great influence. His reputation was gained not by focusing on himself or on great things, but by focusing on the...
Online Safety for Our Youngest Neighbors
January 5th, 2023
The internet and social media make it easier than ever for neighbors to connect remotely. Both young and old alike can interact online. While this convenience makes grown-ups more accessible...
Chicken Soup for Neighbors
December 20th, 2022
I have a confession: as a pre-teen, I was obsessed with every version of the Chicken Soup for the Soul books. You know what I’m talking about; those are the...
A Warm Cup and a Warm Smile
November 22nd, 2022
“Come over tomorrow for hot cider and donuts!” a simple, last-minute invitation pinged on my phone. It was from some neighbors. They had spent the autumn afternoon texting neighbors and...