Welcoming New Neighbors With A DIY Gift Basket

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The other day Steven and I were sitting outside in our backyard when we noticed an unfamiliar barking coming from the house behind ours. The dogs went charging for the fence to inspect the newcomer, and Steven and I quickly realized that we had new neighbors who had just moved in. Our neighbors happened to be out back as well, so just as our dogs had introduced themselves, Steven and I went over to the fence to introduce ourselves. It turns out our new neighbors had just moved from out of state for a job transfer, and they new no one in our area. Steven and I were quick to point them towards a few attractions as we exchanged a few minutes of friendly conversation, and then we all said our goodbyes and retreated back towards our houses. All of us except our dog, however. In the five minutes that they had spent sniffing each other by the fence, it was clear that they had suddenly become best friends. I made a mental note to schedule a puppy play date next time I saw our neighbors in their yard.

Later that night I got to thinking about how hard it must be to move to a new area where you know no one. I can imagine how isolated that sweet couple must have felt when they first landed in Alabama. I decided then and there that I wanted to reach out to them and let them know that they weren't alone and that they had a neighbor that they could count on. I began brainstorming ideas. It was clear that my dogs felt the same way about their new puppy friend, so I decided to make them a gift basket filled with fun treats for the couple as well as a couple of surprises for their dog. After all, their dog is certainly part of the family! We wouldn't want her feeling left out of the fun. 

The next morning as I was standing in my kitchen looking out the window into our backyard, I noticed our neighbors once again working hard in their own backyard. They have a wonderful set up back there, and it was obvious that they were trying to tidy the yard up so they would have a retreat to relax in all summer long. I began jotting down a list of goodies to include in my DIY gift basket. I wanted the basket to center around a certain theme, so I landed upon a summer fun gift basket for both, the couple and their sweet dog. 

I headed straight to Walmart after work that day to get all the supplies I needed to make my gift basket. I knew I wanted a gift for the dog first and foremost, so I walked straight over to the pet supplies and picked up Pedigree Dentastix®. These are my dogs' favorite treats, so I knew the neighbors dog would probably enjoy them just as much. Plus, you can't beat a treat that your dog not only loves, but it also reduces tartar buildup! I also picked up a small toy for the dog to enjoy after she indulged in her yummy Pedigree Dentastix®.

After leaving the pet aisle I decided my next stop would be the candy aisle. After all, who doesn't love candy (especially after a long and tiring move across country)?! I picked up a large bag of Peanut M&M's®, a bag of Skittles®, and a bag of Lifesavers® hard candy variety. Yum! Next stop was to pick up my new favorite indulgence, Snickers® Ice Cream Bars. Believe me when I say, these are delicious!

Next up it was to the home goods to finish out the gift basket. I picked up a few magazines to help inspire the new homeowners, a candle that reminds me of summertime, and a pretty cup for sipping on delicious drinks while sitting out on the back patio. All in all, I knew our new neighbors, and their sweet dog, would enjoy the southern hospitality.

I made it home in time to finish the gift basket before starting on dinner, so I thought there would be no better time than to walk over to our neighbor's house and present them with their welcome to the neighborhood summertime fun gift basket. I am happy to report that they loved it, but I think the biggest fan of all was their sweet dog! Her Pedigree Dentastix® were a huge hit! She dove right into them. Our neighbors kindly thanked us for their gifts, and we even scheduled a cookout for next weekend! How fun will that be?! I can't wait to celebrate summer all summer long with our new friends!

Make sure you download the Blippar app from your Apple or Android store to scan your package and receive exclusive content. Want even more savings? Click here to receive instant savings on M&M's®, SNICKERS® Ice Cream Bars, Dr Pepper® Cherry, Skittles®, and Pedigree Dentastix®! What is your favorite idea for welcoming a new neighbor into town? Share in the comments below.