Meeting a Goal Using Bread

When we first moved in, one of my goals was to meet our neighbors. What better way to do this than to bring along a tin of cookies? Some fun things were discovered those wintry evenings: the neighbors below us were the "originals" (they've been here the longest and even owned the campground on our road at one point); the neighbors two doors down are the "originals'" son and daughter-in-law; and the neighbors above us are new to the neighborhood too. I'm hoping that warmer weather will give us more of an opportunity to see the people around us.

The neighbors right below us (the "originals") are an elderly couple; she is almost blind, and he takes such good care of her and their property. He is ALWAYS out shoveling his driveway before I get to ours! She takes the time to call about once a week - just to check on us. I've taken the kids in to meet them as well. She has lamented the fact that people are just "too busy" anymore to take the time to visit and help each other.

This "too busy" fact has long been something I've thought about. My goal (and I know a lot of you share this goal) is to move past the busy-ness of my life and really spend time meeting and learning more about other people. One book that has really helped me do this is "Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day"! It has wonderful recipes, and one of its big concepts is to allow the refigerator to do most of the work. I have just found out this morning that there is a sequel - "Healthy Bread in Five Minutes a Day".

These little loaves of bread are great for meals but also for sending along with friends and.....neighbors! I have a bucket of this dough going almost every week, and it's a continuing goal to bake it for other people. I want to move past the busy, everyday things that get in the way. Today, my house may not be clean (well, okay, maybe I'll do the bathroom); but lunchtime guests are invited!

Here's to good bread!