Our new neighbors helped us during an emergency. Now, 6 years later, they're like grandparents to our children.

"Six years ago, my husband and I prepared to move into the home of our dreams. It was everything we had hoped for: a quaint split-level on a charming street in a beautiful neighborhood. The move was happening during a difficult time. I was 38 weeks pregnant with our fourth child and unable to participate in most of the physical labor. So, my tasks mainly included folding, pointing, and barking orders from the couch."

"At the end of moving day, our home was a mess of bubble wrap and boxes. Although we were excited, we were also exhausted. After a quick, casual meeting with our across-the-street neighbors - a lovely retired couple in their mid-60s - we excused ourselves for the night. My husband suggested that the girls and I sleep nearby at my parents' house while he continued to unpack. The next morning, I immediately noticed that my parents were acting strangely."

Six years ago, a family moved into a dream split-level home while the mother was 38 weeks pregnant and unable to help with heavy work. Moving day left the house strewn with boxes and bubble wrap. The mother and children stayed at her parents' home while the father continued unpacking. Overnight the new home's garden-level basement flooded with three inches of water, ruining the space. The retired couple across the street discovered the flood, assisted with the emergency, and helped manage the aftermath. The neighbors' immediate aid alleviated stress and transformed neighborly goodwill into a lasting, family-like friendship.

Read at Business Insider