Our New Life

A Good Move

We found a house in the city. So totally different in every way. That was the appeal. It was a good move, and seven years on is very definitely home.

I am so glad we had the opportunity to live in the country and to create our garden. I am so happy that the ideal of country life is the dream of future generations. And so it goes on.

Our city life is totally different. Our house is brand new, on a small estate built on an old industrial site overlooking water. The house is tall and light and outward looking over fantastic ever-changing long vistas. We have low energy costs, and modern insulation has resulted in large accumulations of jumpers and fleeces being moved on to the charity shops.

Here, we can walk everywhere and the city has everything we need. Living in a small close knit community has brought unexpected joys of belonging. We share, we give and take in numerous ways. Where previously a beautiful sunset was a private indulgence, now we get a text from a neighbour and share the pleasure across the balconies. “ Have you seen the moon/ sky/ water this evening?” Far better to share the moment. To give and take.

“ I am sending my son over with some supper for you”

“Are you OK?, we noticed your car wasn’t there last night”

“Can you recommend the person who does your plumbing/ decorating/ window cleaning?“

“Come round and have a glass of wine with us”

“Have you ever had any problems with your……?”

“Thank you very much for the marigold seeds/ cakes/ drawings”

“Do you have any rosemary for a recipe I’m doing?”

“Just off to work and noticed your car has a flat tyre – did you know?”

“Do you need anything from the supermarket?”

“We have a parcel for you. Will drop it round if you’re home”

This is wonderful. The country was great, but in all those years we only had one kind family who briefly lived nearby that appreciated this neighbourly approach. After 27 years of self- imposed exile and privacy we are here. We belong somewhere. We feel part of a community.