tWe have lived in our current neighborhood for about 1 1/2 years. In that time, we have became acquainted with all the wonderful people who live here. Occasionally, we have a neighborhood get-together, and as more houses are built there are more and more people to meet. We have everything from appetizers to a full meal. Everyone always contributes -- we have tried some delicious food! At this fall's gathering, I plan to take tortilla roll-ups. 

Once a month, the women get together for coffee, either at a local coffe shop or in someone's home. October was my turn to host, and I served blueberry muffins and chai tea scones. I have not made scones before, and adapted a recipe found on the internet. There was a little too much moisture in them, so I will have to adjust the recipe a little more next time I make them.

Now, to get to the conversation part. At our get-togethers we have agreed there are many topics we can discuss, but we will stay away from talking about health. One lady basically said we are making ourselves old before our time when we discuss all of our ailments. Now, keep in mind we are all ages 50 to 70 in this neighborhood! We all have our problems, but need to remember to keep them quiet. Actually, it is more fun to learn about everyone's families, hobbies, and trips. We just have to remember to plant the seeds of kindness by asking others about themselves, instead of talking about ourselves. Good advice for talking to your neighbors or anyone else!

Phillipians 2:3-4 (NIV) says: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."