Dear Hometown,

I know I haven’t always been around lately. Just know, though, that no matter what town I'm in, I’m missing you dearly.

There is something about your genuine beauty that leaves a feeling of awe. Going to bed with the crickets chirping and waking up to your birds singing a joyful melody will never get old. Driving down old back roads and staring at the beautiful mountains in the background is mesmerizing.

I just can’t get enough. I am so lucky to call you my hometown.

Thank you for the endless memories; calling you home for twenty years has been an honor. Thank you for always being welcoming and providing me with a “home.” You have created the person I am today. When I was born, the first time I successfully peed in the potty, when I went to kindergarten, my first kiss, getting my license, and on graduation day you were there. I’m so thankful I could experience these memories in such a beautiful place.

During the high points and the low points in my life, you were the only thing that was constant. No matter the crazy chaos life was at throwing me, you were always there in ways I can’t begin to describe. Thank you for providing those gravel, dirt roads that my friends and I would drive down late at night while blaring country music; those roads were a safe haven that provided comfort for me when I felt lost. Thank you for the ponds and lakes that were a calming place when I needed it most. The memories and life talks with dad while fishing will never grow old. Thanks for the mom and pop restaurants and coffee shops that are so unique to the people I share you with. The memories I have sitting there with my grandparents are ones I will treasure forever.

I'm sorry that I occasionally call you boring and daydream about living somewhere where there is more to do. Let's be honest, though, there are not many things to do here except eat, go bowl, go to the movies, and eat again. The local Walmart became the “hang out” place until you and your friends get kicked out. I am sorry that I picked a college that is hours away from you just so I could get away. Looking back, I always miss you.

I miss not driving down the road and throwing my hands up. I miss not being able to chill with my friends at Waffle House in the wee hours of the morning talking about who-knows-what. I miss being with my family and continuing to making unforgettable memories. I miss the sounds of the frogs' croakin’ and the diesel trucks racin' down old back roads. In all honesty, I just really miss you.

Thanks for all the life lessons you have taught me along the way. Because of you, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. This town has had its ups-and-downs but, in the end, we're made up of individuals who want to be happy and live life to the fullest. Thanks for placing amazing people in my life and for giving me the chance to blossom and grow in such a positive and radiant place. I appreciate you.

Don’t worry, hometown, no matter where I go, your back roads will always lead me home.