Last weekend, I set off for a walk with no destination in mind. I prodded myself up a steep hill, then another, and then made a few turns—not my usual route. As I ambled along, a woman who lived at the top of yet another hill came to mind. She and I had belonged to a Moms-and-babies group many years ago and our grown sons are still good friends. We’ve spoken on the phone a few times but I rarely see her, partly because she’s battling a serious illness.
I enjoy walking through neighborhoods admiring the cute houses.
Do you know how it feels when your children grow up and leave home, and you stop seeing their parents again? You might like to run into one at the grocery store or pass them on the street, but never do. I didn’t suffer from empty nest syndrome, but I miss those parents!
Maybe you’re younger and have recently spread your wings and moved far away. No longer do you see former friends or fellow classmates. Although Facebook and iPhones help, nothing beats speaking to a person face-to-face.
As I neared this woman’s house, fond memories filled my mind. I recalled the happy times her son spent with us at our beach place, and how much we’d appreciated him. Several years ago, when this young man was still living at home, my husband and I had been in a jam. We needed strong arms to help move an old TV set. Our son’s friend had dashed right over when we called. We offered him $20, but he refused the money.
Rounding the last corner, I was glad to see two cars parked out front. Someone was home, but my friend had been ill and might be taking a nap. My mind scrambled with possibilities and reasons to keep strolling by. I’d heard her husband had retired; he might not appreciate a drop-in uninvited guest.
I gathered up my courage and rang the front doorbell. A long pause ensued, but finally she came to the door with a surprised look on her face. “Have you come to see me?” she asked. “For five minutes?” I said, more a question. “Do you mind?”
I noticed my friend still decorates her home with blue and white after Christmas.
She graciously invited me in and offered me soup she was preparing for lunch – butternut squash soup, which I adore. How’s that for perfect timing? We sat at her table, reminisced, and laughed over the good old days. And to think I almost kept going out of a misguided sense of decorum.
This glorious sky was my final reward after a pleasant day.
On my trek home, I asked myself how I’d feel if someone came to my door and saw my messy house, still in shambles after Christmas. Pride would make me blush, but would a true friend care? Unlikely. I recall my mother once said she always kept the living room straightened in case someone dropped by. But popping in without an invitation is an activity of the past.
When was the last time a neighbor or friend visited you on a whim? How would you feel? Do you welcome drop-ins as an interruption or an unexpected blessing?
Leave a comment to enter to win this Amish-made Apron from Lancaster County, PA.
Leave a comment and enter to win this lovely Amish-made apron from Lancaster County, PA, plus a signed book from The Legacy of Lancaster Trilogy: either Leaving Lancaster, it’s sequel Pennsylvania Patchwork, or Forever Amish! Winner has three days to respond. USA and Canada.
It seems any more I can’t keep my house straight so unexpected company may get an eye full but that’s okay.
Great attitude, Melanie! I try, but our home is never P-perfect either. Writing or walking always gets priority. Thanks for leaving your comment. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Always enjoy your stories.
Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway, Joyce!
I love unexpected visits from family, neighbors or friends. My house is usually neat and in order, maybe a little dusty, but, I may not be. I like wearing my pj’s when home and no make up and hair a mess…ha ha. If you knock unexpectantly thats what you will find but I don’t care. Life is really so short that if you want to drop in I say by all means do. I know people that want you to almost make an appointment so everything will be top shape but life is not perfect. Loved the white picket fence and house…My kind of house!!!!
You summed it up perfectly, Judy! Life is too short to wait until your house is perfect and you’re dressed in your Sunday best. Thanks for your terrific comment and for entering the giveaway. Good luck!
Kate
I love unexpected guests!!! Drop in any time!!! Loved reading this!!!
How delightful that you love unexpected guests, Dianna! Glad you enjoyed reading my post. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I love your “Amish” decor.
Thanks for leaving a comment and entering that giveaway, Maxine!
Kate
I live in my house it is always ready for anyone to drop in. Would love for you to drop in if you were in town. I need another good book to read.
Thanks for your generous invitation, Barbara! I am always on the prowl for another good book to read too. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I do remember the days of drop in visits….sometimes I was really busy and kept them short…most of my friends from long ago have moved on…and I no longer see them…the memories of many visits are still strong today…how I wish I had those times back…I miss them so much…thank you Kate for including us in your blog…I have never read any of your books…but would love the chance to do so…the apron is so beautiful…looking forward to your next message!
If you’ve never read one of my books and money is an issue, please order them at your local library, Mary, a favor for both of us. Several of my good friends moved out of the neighborhood or area and I miss seeing them. A telephone call just isn’t the same. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
My cousin dropped by 2 years ago before Christmas on her way home from a cousins luncheon, and I was so happy to see her. She went home and never went out of her house again or talked to anyone. She quietly passed away last week and nobody ever knew why she secluded herself. She gave me a big hug before she left my house. I guess it will always remain a mystery.