Wichita Falls is a city nestled at the very edge of north Texas. For the longest time I hated it. It felt like a dead end retirement town that I couldn't wait to leave. But the longer I live in another city, the more the once empty town comes alive in a way I never knew it could. Even being gone a year has ultimately reminded me why anyone could live there. There are so many little things about it that draw people to a place so unlikely.
1. Never drink the water.
It doesn't take a true Wichita Falls native to know this one. After a crippling drought that lasted long enough for us to create a new drought stage just for the city, we were forced to take desperate measures. As you may have seen on the Today show, Wichita Falls is known as the first city to reuse its own toilet water. Having personally gone to the treatment center, I can vouch that it is sanitary, but obviously the thought is a little weird.What can I say? We are quite prepared for the next dry season! But between now and then and probably forever, I'll stick to bottled water.
2. We really love football.
If you happen into the city during the week of the much anticipated Rider verses Old High game, you will see the most spirited town in Texas. Businesses all over the city magically become decked out in the gold and black of Rider or the red and black of Old High. Admittedly it can get out of hand, but in the end, we like to think that it's all in good fun. Something about that game brings all of the families together in a rivalry we all know just won't dwindle. Is it really a good high school experience if there isn't a huge sport event every year?
3. The water fall is a lie.
One of the most visited place in Wichita Falls for pictures is the iconic waterfall... when it's on. I haven't figured out the exact times that this magical event happens, but it's still a great place to go by and explore. Surrounded by trails, you can bike, hike, and climb to your hearts content, even without the waterfall being on. But when it is, it is wonderful.
4. We are a town of prayer.
With the massive drought that consumed the city, the churches began to leap into action. Signs were scattered all over front lawns and businesses, to encourage it's people to pray for rain. And the not so crazy thing? It worked. After months of prayer, the rain came. Granted it came all at the same time, as if all the rain that had been locked in the sky for years suddenly was let go. Even then, with half the town under water, the city banded together and took care of those that were affected. Following the flooding new signs were placed all over town, simply declaring thanks to God for the rain we had so long been without. It may not have been the best way to get a water supply, but nothing could change the joy we had for it coming.
5. Frank and Joe's is the best
Although a recent addition to the city, Frank and Joe's has taken the Wichita Falls coffee shop world by storm. Not only is the coffee freaking awesome(way better than Starbucks), the atmosphere is to die for. With occasional live music, a cute patio, and convenient study rooms, Frank and Joe's has become the ultimate place to be.
6. Hotter Than Hell is the biggest event of the year.
If you have never seen thousands of people attempt to ride one hundred miles in one hundred degrees, you haven't seen anything.Those riders are nothing short of incredible and most likely (I'm convinced) super human. The race is a huge part of the town's history. Aspects of it are woven in to the architecture and the flyovers. The whole community pitches in to make it possible, and without them, it simply wouldn't be the same.
7. We have great weather.
As long as you completely ignore May through August, Wichita Falls can have all the seasons in a week. As a thrown in bonus, it has been 70 degrees at Christmas! No need to worry about changing out your closet with the time of year!
8. The sky is pretty awesome.
Growing up there, you don't really notice the sky. But I remember a distinct time I was talking to someone that had recently moved there and they just couldn't get over how huge it was. You can always look up and expect to see the clearest blue. It just makes your whole day better.
9. We are one.
No matter what happens, this city will band together and become the most supportive group you could ever pray for. Any tragedy that strikes brings out the very best in every single person in that town. They will love you and do everything they can to help in any way they can. There is truly nothing that can compare to the love the people of Wichita Falls have for each other and for the place they live.
For all that Wichita Falls lacks in amenities, it makes up for in heart of the people that dwell there. Everyone is taken in as family, and you won't be left out. I am proud to say it's where I grew up. That city has made me into the person I am today.
