When I retired from the library at Hopkinton Middle High School almost two years ago, I bemoaned the fact that my days would no longer begin with some often humorous or enlightening interactions with kids. Yes, I was ready to sleep later than 6 a.m., eager to participate in town activities at the new community center, and now able to walk the back roads in the morning. I’m happy that I can travel midweek and read until midnight in front of the wood stove.
But that kid energy was missing – until I found it in other locations.
My neighbors up the hill have three kids who run track and cross-country, putting in miles with a smile right past my house every weekend. The three teenagers across the road are out and about laughing with their dog in the summer. The family at the corner stops by with fresh bread now and again, always hand delivered by a smiling child. But it’s the paper delivery person who really makes my day. Courtney is just older than a teenager, but her ready grin and effervescent wishes for “a great day” are a fine introduction to the morning at hand.
I’ll be waiting tomorrow . . .
JANET MOORE
Andover