by Kathleen Sihock

Created on: September 18, 2009   Last Updated: March 30, 2011

People these days just seem too busy with their schedules and lives that they just don't take the time get to know the people around them.

Wouldn't it be nice if we would just take one day out of a month to maybe relax, get to know the people who live around you, and just enjoy life a little more.

It's true, in the old days neighbors used to pull together and do things together more than they do these days. People in the neighborhood got along with one another and helped each other out, almost like an extended family.

Nowadays, maybe we need to rekindle a little bit of that kindness and spirit of the days gone by, take some ideas from them. Don't be judgemental of those around you. Give them a chance to get to know you, and you them, and who knows, maybe that man you thought was a nosey old grump from across the street may turn out to be a good friend. Or that long haired guy with the barking dog. Who knows, maybe he might have a great sense of humor you never knew about.

Okay, let's get started. Thinking up some ideas for the neighbors, I came up with a few ideas. One of which is very easy, and do-able for all.

Make flyers and put them on your neighbors' door advertising a block yard sale for all of the neighbors. Pick a day that is good for most, such as a Saturday morning, and make it a neighborhood event.

Put an ad in the local newspaper. Let people know about it. Hang up balloons and yard sale signs. Make it a real success. After the event, get the neighbors together on your front lawn for cookies, drinks, and conversation so everyone can get to know one another a little better.

Another great idea, is to have a buffet lunch or dinner at your home. Open up your back yard to the neighbors - put out tables and chairs. Have everyone bring a dish, such as a casserole, salad or dessert. If all the neighbors participate, it is great! It is just like having a smorgasbord. You get to try different foods and socialize with the neighbors. Make sure you have toys, balls, etc., for the kids to play with, and have a wonderful time.

If it is spring or summer and you have a pool, make some flyers advertising a block pool party at your home. Have people bring sandwiches, chips and drinks. Something light to eat for everyone, and make sure you have an appointed person to watch the pool for safety while people are swimming. Make sure parents swim with their children so there are no unfortunate accidents. And have a great time getting to know your negihbors.

One more great idea is to have a neighborhood scavenger hunt. Have the neighbors get togehter and each family spend no more than $20 on buying small gifts and prizes. Then hide them somewhere within their front yards. Have a set time for the event to begin. Then at that time blow a whistle to signal the start of the hunt, and let everyone search.

It is rewarding as well as fun, and it's a great way to enjoy your day. Afterwards, everyone can have refreshments and show what prizes you found. And please, no fighting over the prizes!

I know it is hard in this day and age to be able to get everyone together on one certain day. But even if all the neighbors can't join in the fun, maybe if at least half or more participate in the event, it can still be a true success. It will bring everyone closer together, you will have a better relationship with your neighbors, and you will have more friends.

Try switching off. Maybe one month, one neighbor sponsors a neighborhood event, and then rotate to another neighbor. And who knows, maybe you will start a tradition.

So have fun neighbors. Enjoy yourselves, and make some new friends.

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