Laura I think its like that anywhere and everywhere you go, Where we live most everyone knows everyone so not much gets by here LOL.

But in your bigger towns its different neighbors are distant, quiet, looking out their windows wandering what your up to, but afraid to ask, so its everywhere you go

Laura,

I think the problem is all of the above.

I have neighbors that I've lived around for several years now, and I don't know them -- I don't whether they have children, whether they're married, etc.

Now, it's not that I'm antisocial -- on the contrary! I just don't have much time for socializing. In between working, house cleaning, cooking, washing, taking my daughter to school, ballett, gynastics, her outings, helping my mom, helping friends, trying to spend time with my boyfriend, etc., I'm pretty burnt out.

The only time I have to take a deep breathe and do what like is when everyone is alseep (like now!).

However, if out in a social setting, I'm totally different. I'm very sociable, very approachable, and I like to have fun.

Hell, I make friends standing in a grocery store lines, and will talk to anyone including the homeless. I think that's the southern girl in me.

But at home -- my sanctuary -- I'm a little different because it's back to business, especially when kids are involved.

Having lived in New Jersey for a month, I will say that the climate tends to be a little different than some places, but that's not uncommon for heavily populated cities. I found it very difficult to meet people and make friends, which is likely the reason I came back home.

Have you considered having a backyard outing and inviting the neighbors? That's usually a good ice breaker.

Geeeze Nick, You gotta start eating more. You're nothing but skin & uh, er, nothing but bones now!!!