Lifestyle

‘Turquoise Table’ Movement Started in Austin Brings Neighbors Together

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Tony Maples Photography

 

Austinite Kristin Schell wanted to get to know her neighbors. “I tried everything: Book clubs and easy dinner parties or Bible studies or morning coffee, but that always involved so much effort,” she told KVUE. Then, a lightbulb went off in her head – why not take a simple, more organic, approach? She set a turquoise picnic table out in her front yard, sat down with something to do, and waited to see if any neighbors walked by wanting to chat. It only took a few minutes before someone came along, ready to create a neighborly bond.

Now, Schell’s Turquoise Table idea has spread across America, creating a movement of neighbors suddenly becoming “front yard people.” In fact, the idea has become so popular that Schell has compiled a book of stories sent to her from around the country from people who have set up a table in their own yard.

The book, “The Turquoise Table: Finding Community and Connection in Your Own Front Yard” was released on June 6th, and already has ten rave reviews on Amazon. “What the world needs is more TURQUOISE. We’re so disconnected from those closest to us. Having community use to be part of everyone’s daily lives. Now we can’t sit in the same room with family and friends without our devices in our hand or at least nearby. Kristin’s approach is simple yet profound!” Caleb writes.

To start your own Turquoise Table community, visit Schell’s website to get started.