"One of my favorite parts"

My BFF recently wrote a blog about how someone told her that she was “one of their favorite parts” about the place where they both work. Then she e-mailed me to tell me that our e-mails to each other were “one of her favorite parts” of her day. At the end of the blog, she encouraged readers to tell at least one person in their life that they are "one of their favorite parts."

I already let my BFF know that I totally agree about our e-mail communication and how I had a fun time chatting with her via Gmail the other night. I told her that if we chatted that way every night, I’d NEVER go to bed! :) We’ve done Skype before and need to get back to that when my husband doesn’t need to be attached to his computer all night.

Therefore, I wanted to talk about someone who is “one of my favorite parts” about living in Maryland. Keep in mind that I really like all my friends and neighbors in this community and around the area. However, this particular friend stands out and comes to mind when asked to pick a person to tell. She is a friend who is also a neighbor.

After a busy day and long drive to move to our new neighborhood, this neighbor was the first friendly face who presented herself at our front door as we pulled up to our house. She invited us over anytime we needed to get out of the house with the kids that week. We saw her at least once a day during the first few weeks after our move. Our kids became friends quickly and we connected easily, as well. She told us all the good places to shop in the area and even spent the time to write out directions to each store.

As the months flew by, our friendship strengthened as we got to know each other better. When I hurt my eye in November, she drove me to the eye doctor and waited nearby to pick me up. She also helped with getting my younger son to school the next day. (Some other friends and neighbors also helped with this immensely and I want them to receive credit for it, as well.)

When I got my job, she had no problem with watching my older son every morning and helping him catch his bus. She greets him with a smile no matter how tired she is and he enjoys being there with her and her kids. She’s also been available to help watch either kid whenever I needed her assistance. In the past six months, she has totally defined everything a good neighbor should be, and more. (Not saying any of my neighbors now or in the past have not been good because some have been wonderful, as well….but she takes it to a whole new level.) I also have a great time hanging out with her, as she has come over to play board games, watch TV, bake challah or just simply chat. Our families sometimes do potluck Shabbat meals together. She introduced me to my favorite thrift store and we braved the crowds together during the Martin Luther King Day sale. Her husband is very nice too and I also enjoy talking to him. He tapes “American Idol” for me whenever I need it (since our VCR is not hooked up to record shows yet). He’s also helped watch the kids from time to time.

I hope I have been a good neighbor to her in return. I know things get busy on my end, but I try to do what I can. I enjoy bringing over little gifts for her kids, letting her borrow stuff from us, picking up things for her at the store, inviting (her and) her family over for meals, etc. I don’t do it because I feel I have to. I do it because I love having her (and her family) as a neighbor, and more importantly as a friend.

With that said, I ask and encourage you to tell at least one person in your life that they are "one of your favorite parts." You will be amazed what a difference it can make!