Holly Pruett
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It Takes a Neighborhood

11/8/2013

 
Pictureawaiting the babies' arrival home
"It was the best party the neighborhood has ever had!" That's the word on the street, according to my mother, after 50 local residents came together to celebrate two newborn babies.

The fathers, Rick and Marwan, have lived in their house for some time - but their demanding careers and many interests have meant they haven't often mingled with the rest of the tight-knit two-block neighborhood association. Their three-year home renovation had attracted lots of curiosity but few connections with the busy occupants.

Pictureneighbors: Marwan & Rick
When my mom learned that her immediate neighbors were expecting twins, she decided it was time for a change. The daughter of immigrants, my mom spent much of her life considering herself rootless. But since moving back to New Haven in retirement, she's thrown herself full-time into community building.

Knowing that the babies would spend most days in the care of nannies, my mom thought it would be good for the neighborhood to get engaged, extending the network of care and concern from house to house. After another neighbor wondered, 'When is the baby shower?" my mom proposed a neighborhood affair to the expectant fathers. They embraced the idea.

PictureMarwan & his mom
From the 30 or so households in the neighborhood association, about 50 people came, toting kids and presents. Marwan's mother, in town to help with the babies' homecoming after their prolonged stay in the neonatal ICU, treated everyone to her wonderful Lebanese cooking. There was cake and a short speech of gratitude from Rick, who introduced the surrogate who had given birth to their babies and has, along with her husband, become a part of their lives.

Marwan and Rick told me, "The excitement and joy that our neighbors had for us and our twins Zizi and Zayd were palpable. We are grateful to Jane and Norman for organizing this event!!"

It was a wonderful occasion for the neighborhood, my mom reports. New folks met old-timers, and everyone got to connect with Rick and Marwan and celebrate their entrance into parenthood.

As the saying goes, It Takes a... Neighborhood.

Picture
congratulations, Rick & Marwan!
Sally Shannon
11/8/2013 03:43:44 pm

Hi Holly. I had time for one more email before calling it a night. I saw your name in my inbox and chose to read it. Who could resist a topic like yours - The New Dads! Then I found the tidbit about your trip to Bhutan. Only you would have this curious entry on your resume. I hope you have a great trip. And thanx, as always, for the treat of your weekly postings. Happy Trails!!! Sally


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