When we moved into this home, we met our wonderful neighbours across the fence. As soon as I heard that NYC accent, I said, “Are you Jewish?” When they both took a step backwards and looked stunned, I realized that it didn’t sound as if I was as excited as I was by the possibility. As soon as I said that we had just finished putting the mezuzahs in the doorways, it lightened up dramatically. Some of my best in-laws were of the Jewish persuasion and I was delighted to have neighbours with whom to swap stories. Twelve years later, we count them as dear friends.