Creating ties...

I have lived in this house, in this state, for the last few years. I have not particularly enjoy it, to say the least. I like my little house, my little yard,and my sweet little pound puppy (native of this area) but beyond that, I just don't want to be a part of the community. When my hubby and I moved here, we got involved in social groups, medical support groups, and we were active in social activities associated with my husband's workers. The ostomy support group decided to stop meeting because they didn't have many newcomers, so they disbanded. The social group was amazingly violent with knife fights breaking out during meetings. So, we decided that would not be our kind of place. And on a 3-day women's spiritual retreat, a 4 hour drive (one way) mind you, I felt completely invalidated, belittled, and overall broken down. That conference was not at all about that, but some of the participants were, especially those in my home group. So for the sake of my sanity, I loosened my ties with this particular group. So for the last couple of years, we haven't had many ties with the community. But in the last week or so, we have actually felt part of this town. Case in point.
1. Two young neighborhood boys have been visiting the house to play with Ellydog, and they are learning some safe training tips from Glenn.
2. We were at a pottery place last weekend and we were recognized and greeted by our jeweler.
3. Yesterday during our flower planting in the front yard, several neighbors spoke to us.
4. The vet staff recognizes us on sight.
5. My 'usual' at taco bell is recognized as being ordered by either me or my husband by the neighborhood staff.
6. There are a couple other restaurants that we frequent, who have at least one person on staff that knows us. Sure it usually it as "the coupon people", but still it counts.

So, all-in-all, we have become part of this town, whether we like it or not. And while we may not have the original ties we made to this town, we still have a tiny sense of community growing around us. Interesting, I think. Happy Weekend!!!