Happy birthday, mom, and thanks, neighbors

My mother's birthday was a week ago Monday but she's still enjoying her neighbor's good wishes. That's because a few of them whimsically decorated the sidewalk adjacent to her house with a "Happy Birthday, Estelle" chalk drawing in a rainbow of colors the afternoon of her birthday. It made her day and is still the highlight of her birthday. She's still proudly telling her friends how surprised she was that neighbors took the time to draw something special for her and how honored she felt that they wanted to do so. Every time I see the chalk drawing, I too can't help but smile at the thoughtful wish and colorful graphics in front of the house bestowed upon her by acquaintances. And I'm just as thankful for their kindness. And the drawing encouraged other neighbors, who didn't know it was her birthday, to wish her a good day. The next day after my mother's greeting appeared, the artists drew an anniversary greeting at the house across the street. For a few years now, the chalk artists have been decorating the neighborhood's driveways and sidewalks to honor birthdays and anniversaries. And I know that the chalk drawings are done in other area neighborhoods and surrounding cities and towns. For those who don't feel like they're artsy, there are other ways to surprise a neighbor with good wishes. Tie a balloon to a tree, paint a rock, leave a card at the front door or leave a potted plant on the walkway. The simple gestures can make someone's day memorable for years to come. Besides bringing a smile to the recipient, it's a great way to meet your neighbors too, if you don't know them already. A generation ago, we knew all our neighbors. In today's world, many of us are on the move and come home at night too late to begin socializing with others. Since we often don't know our neighbors any more, having someone who lives nearby remember our birthday, anniversary, graduation or even job promotion is a nice way to connect with the immediate community. Wouldn't it be great if we got back into the tradition of being friendly with all our neighbors? Wishing neighbors a happy day is one way to do that.