SOMA Living May 2025

The family—Will, Diane, and their daughters Eleanor (13), Harriet (10), and Cecilia (7)—moved to Maplewood in 2014, charmed by its warmth and diversity. An actor friend of Diane’s introduced them to the area. “When we were looking for a house to buy, I remember getting off the train one day and feeling like this town was giving me a hug,” says Diane. Eleanor excels in volleyball at Maplewood Middle School. Harriet, a unique artist, creates mixed-media pieces at the Oakland Road Art Club. Cecilia, a Lego enthusiast, attends Weekday School in South Orange for her sensory needs. “We love the Maplewood schools; our teachers are the best – and deserve more pay!” Diane comments. “But Cecilia needed a smaller setting than public schools offered. Weekday is perfect.” The Hopkins/Davis family values the strong sense of community in Maplewood. “We have our issues,” Diane says, “I think any community does. But at the end of the day, I would much rather have the debates we have here than in so many other places.” Will remembers the nourishing meals that neighbors cooked for them after their babies were born, and after Diane’s mother passed away. “We have a profound appreciation for the ‘earned trust’ within the SOMa community,” he says. “I don’t think there is anywhere else we would want to raise our children.” The Hopkins/Davis family exemplifies community, adventure, and creativity. Their story showcases the power of shared experiences and finding a true sense of belonging.

A Wilderness Canoe Tripping Camp for Boys Ages 7-16 camppathfinder.com

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