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We just moved to Spring Lakes NC. We are renting a house, on a short-term bases but in a relatively new residential neighborhood where (we assume) is all owners or long-term renters. We were honestly expecting neighbors to come bring us home-made food and introduce themselves. Does this happen only in movies? Please set us straight on this if you can.
PS: We actually were hoping it was true So much for southern hospitality or is it just a myth ?
PPS: We have been moved in for a week so its not like they dont realize we are here
We just moved to Spring Lakes NC. We are renting a house, on a short-term bases but in a relatively new residential neighborhood where (we assume) is all owners or long-term renters. We were honestly expecting neighbors to come bring us home-made food and introduce themselves. Does this happen only in movies? Please set us straight on this if you can.
PS: We actually were hoping it was true So much for southern hospitality or is it just a myth ?
PPS: We have been moved in for a week so its not like they dont realize we are here
Welcome to NC! I am sorry I live too far to bring over a plate of cookies
You are living in an area with a lot of military folks, who are very transitory. Don't know about your particular neighborhood, but there's a good chance there aren't many southerners around you, sorry!
It works both ways you know. Did you ever think about bringing over some cookies and introducing yourself? Especially if people know its a rental they aren't going to bother.
It works both ways you know. Did you ever think about bringing over some cookies and introducing yourself? Especially if people know its a rental they aren't going to bother.
Yes we are military and no, I am too shy to do that ! I just thought that is what was the norm. You are right, most of the folks around us hve some connection to the base.
Yes we are military and no, I am too shy to do that ! I just thought that is what was the norm. You are right, most of the folks around us hve some connection to the base.
SEE? You aren't living among many southerners, so you can hardly expect to find the kind of "southern hospitality" you thought you would. Believe me, it is alive and well in many places
It works both ways you know. Did you ever think about bringing over some cookies and introducing yourself? Especially if people know its a rental they aren't going to bother.
Why wont they bother ? Sometimes rentals morph into lease-to-own. Just asking....
Does it seem odd to you to think people would bake and introduce themselves if you are not willing to do the same?
Moving is hard, as is making new friends. You will need to put in effort, too. That is true whether you are in the South, North, East, West or international! Being a military family, you probably know that already or soon will. My husband was in professional sports before he retired. We moved at least once a year, sometimes twice. Believe me, I know it's hard.
In my neighborhood, we don't throw a parade for new families either (metaphorically speaking). The people here are friendly enough, they just keep to themselves - and I mean really keep to themselves. But when I introduce myself, they are very pleasant and kind. If you have kids, maybe find out if there is a playgroup? Or even a homeowner's association meeting or a social committee? Maybe strike up a conversation with a person you see walking at the same time of day as you. Find a common ground and go with it.
You could also just start with the people living on each side of you. Your connections will grow from there!
No it's not a myth as Loves said what you expected does happen in some places. There is a neighborhood welcome committee (official or unofficial) that comes to welcome new families. This doesn't happen right when the moving truck pulls up. Sometimes people wait to give people time to settle in. Waiting a week or more isn't unheard of.
I don't think you should judge the entire state and region based on your experience with your neighborhood. Again remember that they of your neighbors may not be native Southerners.
I would have brought something if I were your neighbor!
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