Dear Avalon,

Why am I writing a silly letter like this to you, a simple beach town? Well, not only have you been beautiful, but you've been my favorite place to go for over 20 years (and counting). You're a place of fascination, comfort, and reassurance. I don't know any other method of giving thanks, besides sinking my feet into your sand and holding my arms outstretched, screaming "thank you" while the ocean waves crash in response.

You're the home of many Jersey Shore traditions, for the enjoyment of numerous locals and out-of-towners. You attract a lot of people with your nightlife, restaurants, and shore stores. You're "cooler by a mile". People love you, a perfect 4-mile-long island by the Atlantic.

Aside from my actual hometown 10 minutes away, you are my favorite place. I spend most of my time here, especially in the summer. I work here, and my family works here. After work, I lay in the scorching sand, soak up the sunshine, and listen to the sea, letting it relax me. I can't go anywhere else. I feel the best in Avalon.

At the very least, I feel so lucky to live near you. I'm so grateful that I am able to drive a short distance to go see you. I'm glad I am the one to watch the sun rise higher and higher in the sky when I drive in to work at 7 o'clock in the morning. The sun shines so bright over the lovely Avalon; it glistens across the ocean, and I just think it's so pretty. Wow, am I lucky to be here.

Not everyone can say that the shore is their permanent home. But I am so super happy to have you and say that. Thank you for being there. I owe most of my memories to you. You're a sweet little town with some big dreams. You hold my heart forever. Never change.

I love how I can go to you and have some ice cream while smelling the fresh sea in the air. I love how I can watch the most perfect sunsets from your view. I love how I can sit on your beach and watch the 4th of July fireworks up close and feel their super strength. I love how you feel like summer, and you feel like home.

Oh, Avalon. You've always been so good to me. I'll never let go of you for as long as I live. If I ever get the chance to actually live in your simple beach town, I'll be the happiest girl in the world. But if that chance isn't in the books for me, it's okay. No matter where life takes me, I will always find my way back home.

And that's you.

Thank you for everything: the memories, the laughter, and the love. You're the best. There's no place like you.

With love,

Alyssa