Neighborhood Friends

 The memories of my childhood neighborhood and the friends I grew up with are etched deeply in my heart. Among them, five of us formed an inseparable bond, becoming the ultimate running buddies. Jessie, who lived just three houses down from my childhood home, became my close friend through the tag team babysitting efforts of my older sister and her. Over time, she became a frequent visitor to our house, joining my sister and me in countless adventures. Then came Jack, who moved in two houses away, perfectly positioned between Jessie and me. I vividly recall the day Jessie and I sat in her front yard, eagerly watching as a moving truck pulled up to the house next door. As a new family emerged from the truck, Jessie wasted no time in urging me to join her in welcoming the newcomer who would soon become our third running buddy. Our friendship was marked by our unique "bird calls" - a code we developed to signal our desire to hang out. With a distinct sound, we'd summon each other to our chosen meeting spots, often makeshift forts that served as our secret hideouts. Our days were filled with endless scooter rides up and down the block, interrupted only by the call to return home as night fell. As if our trio wasn't enough, the arrival of a family of four on our cul-de-sac added even more excitement to our neighborhood adventures. Together, we navigated the twists and turns of childhood, creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime.