How about a happy break from HRC and climate change, snow storms and Christmas shopping, Palin, Tiger and boredom?
Last night I attended a neighborhood holiday party where I enjoed one of the most interesting conversations I have had in a long time. So I thought I would continue it here- to satisfy my own curiosity and to give those among you who would welcome the break a chance to enjoy also.
My neighbor is a throwback to the '50's. She lives to entertain and hosts parties at least once a month. Her holiday party is an annual event and includes many more guests than 'just the neighbors'.
Last night, I was talking to one of my neighbors, describing what my husband and I did last weekend.
"We took a ride out east."
"Where's that?" one of the guests asked. She was the sister of one of my neighbor's friends, in from Ohio and looking to relocate in my area.
"Out east. That's the eastern end of the island". I informed her.
"North fork or south?" my neighbor asked. "North" I answered.
"OK- now I am confused." the friend laughed.
And that set into motion a conversation that had us laughing for almost a half hour, yet opened our minds to what has been happening to neighborhoods across the country.
People are moving- relocating-leaving childhood neighborhoods and entering new communities that are made up, not of locals, but of others that have relocated too. And with that, a change in the demographics for that area. We agreed that was the reason President Obama carried Virginia. Not because he won the hearts of southern rednecks- but because a vast number of 'northerners' have moved into the area.
North Carolina also has a large number of New York transplants. I have friends who left last year- and are still lamenting about the loss of a good bagel.
And getting lost trying to go from point A to point B
Where I live, (Long Island, NY) driving out east means taking a drive along two possible routes. The North Fork brings you to a picturesque wine country with small towns and lots of antique shops.
The South Fork takes you to the Hamptons-beaches and small towns and antique shops. Both drives are nice. I prefer the North Fork myself. Locals on Long Island just don't 'get' the Hamptons.
So, if I were to visit your town, what destination would you recommend for a nice drive? And would I understand you describe how to get there?