I snuck away to the lake this week to work on a writing project. Only I wasn’t very sneaky, because I told a few neighbors I was coming so they wouldn’t wonder who was parked at our place.
I arrived late to a snow-covered driveway. I’d have to traverse a large snowbank created by the snowplow before descending the steep driveway. My hubby and I agreed on the phone it was worth a try. The snow wasn’t too deep at the top of the driveway, but by the time I reached the bottom, it was clear the vehicle wasn’t moving without help.
It was well past a civilized hour to call anyone for assistance. So unloaded my belongings and groceries decided to wait for light of day and reevaluate.
The car was just as stuck in broad daylight as in the dark of night. I would have to shovel it out or clear a path with the finicky, heavy snowblower. Neither are suitable options for a girl who’s had four back surgeries.
Hey, I know my limits. 
I needed reinforcements.
On my previous visit to the lake in February, I met a new, awesome neighbor and we even trekked around the lake on snowshoes together. Even though we’d only been friends for a month, I texted her soon after realizing my car was indeed down a driveway without a tow truck, so to speak.
Within minutes she replied that her husband would be glad to come and help, aka save, me!
He arrived within hours in his beautiful, big, black truck with shiny red plow blades—primed for just such an occasion. He first shoveled out around my tires, then plowed around the car. My plight was like putty in his hands. He swiftly made the driveway into a work of art, piles of snow standing at attention, the car beautifully rescued.
Oh, for the love of kind neighbors!
And if that wasn’t enough, today I was busy writing when I heard a knock on the door. I was a bit startled, because seriously, no one knows I’m here right? But I thought maybe my plowing friend was checking in on me.
Instead, on the other side of the door was a different, darling neighbor from two doors down holding fresh homemade cookies. She said she figured I needed a treat since I was on my own alone writing. Yes, please, and thank you! I never met a chocolate chip cookie I didn’t like. (Or a lovely neighbor who delivers them.)
And thankfully, she could traverse my newly plowed driveway to do so – ha!
If you’ve been around the blog for a while you know, I’m often on the other side of the door delivering food. These gifts of love and time were even sweeter…because the tables were turned.
It’s a special blessing to be loved by a neighbor, especially when you hardly know them. And twice in one week blew me away! May my awesome Up North neighbors inspire you to get on out there and love a neighbor of your own.