The New York Times-20080125-Space for Playtime- -Interview-

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Space for Playtime; [Interview]

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WHO Mimi and Richard Somerby, both 47, owners of an interior design business, and their sons, Rufus, 9, and Henry, 7WHAT 3-bedroom house WHERE Bellport, N.Y.

Mimi: Anyone who has young children knows the challenges of travel. So, at first, we were attracted to Bellport because of its proximity to the city. Rufus was only about two when we first started coming and we were thrilled that there was a place to go sailing only an hour and 10 minutes from our home in Brooklyn.

But as the boys got older, we began to realize what a wonderful place this was for kids. Bellport has an amazing summer day camp, an outstanding sailing program for children, a playground by the water and two beaches. One beach is on Fire Island and you have to take the ferry, which only adds to the fun. Once there, a boardwalk stretches its way toward the waves. I can't think of a more tranquil place.

The town itself, with its white picket fences, ice cream store and little main street, recalls a more innocent time. Rufus and Henry play intramural soccer on the weekends and, as a result, have their soccer friends. And because there's a big field across from our house, they can get together with a group of friends for a game of baseball.

Here, as in Brooklyn, there is a strong sense of community. And I think that knowing the crossing guards, other parents and shop owners by name provides Henry and Rufus with an invaluable sense of well-being.

[Illustration]PHOTO: WHO: Mimi and Richard Somerby, both 47, owners of an interior design business, and their sons, Rufus, 9, and Henry, 7 WHAT: 3-bedroom house WHERE Bellport, N.Y. (PHOTOGRAPH BY GORDON M. GRANT FOR THE NEW YORK TIMES)