Whitneyville in February

If you like an old fashioned community with quaint homes, apartments, and small shops, you will love Whitneyville in Hamden, CT. Whitneyville is home to Home & Hearth Realty, so I spend a lot of time here. It's flurrying lightly today - we expect heavier snow later. The weather, however, isn't as relevant here, because people can walk to shops if they need anything, without necessarily depending on their cars. On a snowy day there is nothing better than lunch at the Playwright. It is a true pub, with delicious pub fare and very good daily specials. Their Shepards Pie or Guinness Stew are real comfort foods. You wouldn't expect it, but their egglant parmesan is to die for!

Across the street from me is Books and Company, where you cab grab a cup of coffee and curl up with a good book. Bring your used books and get credit towards the purchase of a new one. Last year the shop had to close, when a driver drove through the front window and took out shelves, furniture and sprayed glass all over the store. The neighborhood rallied to help by donating books, helping with the renovations and donating gifts for raffles. Within months, Books and Company was back, stronger than ever.

If you need a gourmet item or just a quart of milk, you must go to Whitneyville Foods. The store is renowned for its quality foods. If you need a cheese from just about anywhere in the world, you can find it there. Pair it with a fabulous crusty bread, and you have an occasion. Besides shops, you can walk to the post office, the bank, the bus, and the library. Something to think about, as we ponder the use (and cost) of energy in our lives. Bundle up, get some exercise walking and discover Whitneyville. I love calling my community of Whitneyville home.