The "Porch's" of South Orange

For the almost 20 years we lived on Hillside Place our neighbors, many of whom have decks, porches, or just the sidewalk in front of their  60-100 year old homes to spill out on to, hosted and entertained the families in our neighborhood. Whether for  a holiday, block party, graduations, proms, or merely "Friday after work cocktails" while the kids played, over the years Hillside became the envy of South Orange/Maplewood for its warmth and loving and BYOBs .

Not long ago at one of our gatherings I was told a story by one "interloper" who having been invited to one of the porch gatherings, was eager to meet "The Porch's."  "Who are they, are they here? I'd love to meet them!"  And so, here we were, all of us now collectively known as the Porch's of Hillside Place.

While I have moved ( not far), my roots on Hillside Place will forever be nurtured by my friends and the families who lovingly watch over one another, our children, pets, gardens,... With 20 years of memories, the collective "Porch's", the surrounding friends, neighbors and their extended families, will always be a piece of our hearts.

Besides, while we've left the street, I'll always be attending perhaps co-sponsoring future porch events.

To the Teitelman's, our next door family, I thank you for hosting my "Good Luck' party. To all who party'd with me last night, I celebrate you and every past and future memory that we share. You will dwell in our hearts forever.

Comments

[Michelle Q]

Oddly comforting to hear that we're not the only "former neighbors" who still go back to our old stomping grounds to party with our first neighbors! We may have moved 7 miles away (ours was prompted by the need for *more* house to better accomodate our expanding brood), a bit over 5 years ago, but we STILL go back for the spontaneous block parties (someone would drag out the grill, and everyone would simply bring what they had) on our 'old' cul-de-sac. We love our new home, and are enjoying making memories here too, but we also know that some of the friends we made there will be with us throughout our lives (thank goodness!).

[Theresa]

When I was driving my two kids, 9 and 7, around the other day, I asked them if they knew how lucky we were to live where we lived, here on Hillside Place, and to my amazement and edification, they replied, "We do." No goofy jokes, no smart remarks. Even at that age, they get it. We are indeed lucky Joan, and the porches, the patios, and the grills are open anytime you want to come by, which I hope will be often.

[Mary]

We are all very lucky to live, or to have lived, on Hillside Place. We have been a part of this wonderful street for sixteen years, raised two beautiful daughters and made very good friends and more great memories. Looking forward to seeing you at the Hill on Wednesdays for the Baird concert series. And Joan, and all our neighbors and friends, you are always welcome on our porch.