“A bad neighbor is a misfortune, as much as a good one is a great blessing.” — Hesiod

National Good Neighbor Day

Oh, Good Neighbor Day. Don’t we wish that everyone knew about it? Being good neighbors is an important part of the social fiber that makes this country so great. Therefore, it seems only fitting that one day a year honors good neighbors. (holiday insights.com) This holiday was made a national day in the early 70′s and has been proclaimed by Presidents Nixon, Ford, and Carter.

What makes a good neighbor? Is is someone who lends you eggs and butter in a bind? Helps get the water out of your basement when it’s flooded? Watches your kids when you need a break? It definitely means different things to different people.

I am fortunate to have had many great neighbors. They have all been incredibly unique. One has planted gourds with my kids (that have taken over my yard). One bakes banana breads for my son. I like that my neighbor (who is a caterer), brings me extra sweets for the holidays. Although my waistline doesn’t always like it, my tastebuds certainly do! Yesterday, in fact, I have a neigbor who helped us drain the water from our flooded basement! The list could go on and on…

So, as Good Neighbor Day approaches us on September 27, I like to make sure that my neighbors know how much I appreciate them. Besides for the usual neighborly things like lending them eggs and butter, or getting their mail, keeping quiet in the early morning or late at night, I’m going to make sure that I tell them thank you for all they have done for me!

Here are some other suggestions for celebrating the day:
Offer a small gesture to help your neighbor (Deliver their mail to the front door, bring down their garbage from the top of their driveway)
Invite them over for a meal or dessert.
Smile and say hello when they pass.
Mow their grass for them.
Give them a small token of appreciation (a plate of cookies, a gift)
Write them a card.Remember, everyday is good neighbor day! But as we approach the national holiday, let’s truly recognize and appreciate your good neighbor. Hopefully, one of those good neighbors is you!

“A good neighbor is a fellow who smiles at you over the back fence, but doesn’t climb over it.” — Arthur Baer