I can hardly believe that at the end of this July, my family and I will have been here in Clayton for four years. It is amazing how fast the time goes by, but even more incredible is the feeling that this is the place we now call home.

We found our spot in Clayton thanks to my good high school friend. After seeing her name in our high school newsletter, we quickly reconnected after many years. During a phone conversation, she told me how much she loved living here. Shortly after that, my husband and I came down to visit and we, too, loved it. Within a couple of months, we moved our family.

Since my husband and I had never lived anywhere else besides various locations on Long Island, N.Y., the relocation was extremely exciting but at the same time a bit scary. We were going to live in a new town, in a state where we knew only one person. What made everything come together and gave us comfort was meeting our neighbors.

The subdivision my family and I live in is quite large and has been around for a while. I was happy to find myself on a block and section of the neighborhood that was relatively new, surrounded by other families that had moved in only a short time before us. We found ourselves bonding together immediately due to our recent relocation and also because we all had children who were about the same age. It did not take us long to form the relationships that continue to grow strong every day.

Since my husband and I have no immediate family nearby, these neighbors have become our second family. We spend a lot of time together, and our children always have someone to play with. We help take care of each other's children in whatever capacity needed. We socialize together, whether it be just hanging out in our backyards or getting together for parties, cookouts and brunches. We celebrate holidays by getting together for Halloween parties, Easter egg hunts and Christmas cookie exchanges. The women also have fun shopping together, while the men play sports and poker. Most importantly, we are always there to support each other.

Besides my neighbors, my family and I have a met many other people in our subdivision through two clubs that I belong to. These people have become an important part of our life here. The first group I joined was a book club, where I have met not only other subdivision residents, but also many great women who have lived in Clayton their whole lives. I have learned a lot from them and truly enjoy what they have to say. Our book club also incorporates different age groups, which is wonderful.

Mother's Unlimited, the second club I belong to, is where I have met amazing women both in my subdivision and community. They, too, have relocated from different parts of the country, and we have formed an instant alliance. We play Bunco together once a month, go out to dinner and organize playgroups. We also see each other at the gym and pool. Our husbands have gotten to know each other through various events including their own game night.

In close, I am so glad that I moved to Clayton. What has really solidified my happiness here is the dynamic group of people I have come to know and love. I look forward to the many years and memories ahead.