This is the kind of story that illustrates, for me, the need we have to connect - across time and distance, across fences, even across to the other side. A beautifully spare piece of writing, Elizabeth. Nothing needs to be added. Like a good sauce. Happy holidays!
Elizabeth. Why a beautiful story. I see that gentleman playing with his cute little puppy often. So nice now to know about Peter and Sunshine. It amazes me how things happen around us that we notice and smile about but never actually ask or try to find out anything about it. This may be my New Year’s resolution- if I see something I like ask and find out about it.
It's definitely my resolution, Susan, starting with an openness for opportunities. We can't know each other if we don't try. Thanks for being part of this community.
"This is the kind of story that illustrates, for me, the need we have to connect - across time and distance, across fences, even across to the other side." Stewart has the essence of your poignant story.
In a way, your piece reminds me of the book I'm currently reading called The Book of Beginnings.
Here's to connections of all kinds in 2024, Elizabeth.
What a lovely sweet story. Although I’m very friendly, I tend to avoid the Stop and Chat not due to lack of interest but more social anxiety and never knowing how to end a Stop and Chat :).
But how wonderful that you made this connection and clearly it was important enough for him to share his beloved pasta sauce. I too would like to be more open to connecting. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you, Maryann. I grew up in the south with chatty parents (one of whom I think spent a lifetime hiding social anxiety, and I've definitely got a streak of that DNA), and I now live in a small town. I think both help with my inclination to have these random conversations. You're so right that ending them can be hard! I think I mostly default to a quick time check followed by, "Oh gosh, I'd better run, but this has been lovely!"
So I have an update. Today on my walk I encountered an older man walking a terrier. I had passed them on other days and just nodded. Today, I stopped and paused what I was listening to in order to pat the very friendly terrier whose name was Micky and had a nice conversation with Ted, the owner. He thanked me for stopping to meet his pet so thanks for the encouragement to reach out.
Oh, Maryann! Thank you for this follow-up and for stepping outside your zone of comfort to interact with this pair. Just brilliant! I'm guessing you made their day. Dogs certainly help make the introductions easier, don't they?
Very moving❤
We felt it, too, Barry. 🧡
Oh Elizabeth. This is THE best gift. Thank you. Thank you.
I give Peter and his peeps all the credit. 😊
Now that is a nice gift!
Truly. Merry & bright, Mary!
As a maker and giver of Marinara sauce, I identify with this lovely Christmas story
Thank you, Elizabeth.
Likewise, Ann. A straight path to the heart. 🧡
🥲💗🥲
I know!!!
Sunshine and pasta sauce. Jera must be smiling
I'm sure of it, Stephanie.
Such a lovely story to end the year. And a chance for you and Jim to connect with your neighbor.
Thanks for all your stories. Happy 2024! Hoping for the best!
Thanks, Suzanne. Looking forward with as much optimism as I can!
This is the kind of story that illustrates, for me, the need we have to connect - across time and distance, across fences, even across to the other side. A beautifully spare piece of writing, Elizabeth. Nothing needs to be added. Like a good sauce. Happy holidays!
Connection has been very much on my mind, Stewart, and here come Peter, Jera, and Sunshine. Appreciate you.
Elizabeth. Why a beautiful story. I see that gentleman playing with his cute little puppy often. So nice now to know about Peter and Sunshine. It amazes me how things happen around us that we notice and smile about but never actually ask or try to find out anything about it. This may be my New Year’s resolution- if I see something I like ask and find out about it.
It's definitely my resolution, Susan, starting with an openness for opportunities. We can't know each other if we don't try. Thanks for being part of this community.
Such a heartwarming gesture.... and a dog at the center of this connection, too, a bridge and a path. I love that.
And a dog called Sunshine. Could not be any more apt. Here's to building bridges in 2024. Thanks, Amy.
Absolutely. We all need more bridges. I get the sense you build many!
Such a beautiful story and loving connection. Thank you!
Thank you, Darrell. Hope the world is treating you well.
Elizabeth, what a beautiful, beautiful, post.
Please excuse me - I've got something in my eye...
Thanks, Rebecca. I guess we all recognize a kindred spirit. ❤️
"This is the kind of story that illustrates, for me, the need we have to connect - across time and distance, across fences, even across to the other side." Stewart has the essence of your poignant story.
In a way, your piece reminds me of the book I'm currently reading called The Book of Beginnings.
Here's to connections of all kinds in 2024, Elizabeth.
See you soon! XXXX
I, too, thought Stewart’s words were just wonderful. Thanks for your kindness, Prue. And here’s to 2024!
Riddle me this. Why did your piece remind me of Boo Radley?
“Most people are [real nice], Scout, when you finally see them.”
Ooohhh, yes! Misunderstood hero Boo.
I loved hearing you speak this tender story. Thank you for the holiday gift of this little open window on love. 💕
Thanks, Tara. It did indeed feel like a gift, one I felt privileged to share. <3
What a lovely sweet story. Although I’m very friendly, I tend to avoid the Stop and Chat not due to lack of interest but more social anxiety and never knowing how to end a Stop and Chat :).
But how wonderful that you made this connection and clearly it was important enough for him to share his beloved pasta sauce. I too would like to be more open to connecting. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you, Maryann. I grew up in the south with chatty parents (one of whom I think spent a lifetime hiding social anxiety, and I've definitely got a streak of that DNA), and I now live in a small town. I think both help with my inclination to have these random conversations. You're so right that ending them can be hard! I think I mostly default to a quick time check followed by, "Oh gosh, I'd better run, but this has been lovely!"
So happy you're here!
So I have an update. Today on my walk I encountered an older man walking a terrier. I had passed them on other days and just nodded. Today, I stopped and paused what I was listening to in order to pat the very friendly terrier whose name was Micky and had a nice conversation with Ted, the owner. He thanked me for stopping to meet his pet so thanks for the encouragement to reach out.
Oh, Maryann! Thank you for this follow-up and for stepping outside your zone of comfort to interact with this pair. Just brilliant! I'm guessing you made their day. Dogs certainly help make the introductions easier, don't they?