Growing up in a small town in southwest Virginia, it was a common thing to hear jokes about the bad grammar and all sorts of "cousin lovin" in the state of West Virginia. I pictured this state to be full of flannel wearing rednecks with pickup trucks and thick accents. I imagined huge mountains and never ending back roads with one mom and pop gas station on the way. I saw this one grocery store on the corner where they knew everyone by name. I would love to say I was surprised, but West Virginia really did have all of these things. Now, redneck might not be the best term and they do have Walmarts all over the place, but West Virginia is full of mountains, winding roads and country folk who say "bath" instead of "bathe"

And that is why I love it.

West Virginia is full of small towns. It blows my mind how close the communities are to one another. Going to High School in Virginia, I knew a few people from surrounding counties, but not like they do here. Here, high schools seem so close. It's like one huge web of people. There's this sense of community, even when you're not from here.

West Virginia has the prettiest scenery. Driving down the interstate has never been so beautiful. I love being able to look out of my college dorm room and see views people would hike all day to see. I love to drive 10 minutes down the road and see a new area of this Earth that so many take for granted. So, yes it is full of mountains and back roads, but that's not a bad thing.

West Virginia contains a wide variety of individuals. You have your country song singing boot wearin' guys and gals (that's for sure) but that's not at all the majority of this state. I have encountered so many different types of people with all sorts of passions and hobbies. I've met some of the most faith-driven individuals as well as some of the least. I never would have imagined the political views of some I have encountered. I explained it once as "the spectrum state" because it's full of so many left and right extremes in all areas.

West Virginia has pride. When I say pride, I don't mean that lightly. Something about this state brings out a love and passion in its residents. Of course, not everyone possesses this. Those who do, though, are full and overflowing with love for their home here.

Only about an hour away from here, I grew up so unaware of the world that is West Virginia. In this state, I have learned so much. I learned these mountains are full of priceless beauty and adventure. I learned that the mom and pops gas stations will serve the best foods and the best service. I learned that its possible to be successful, coming from not so successful situations. I've learned what is feels like to take pride in my environment and the world I live in. I learned that sometimes, country music is good. I learned that sweet tea, can indeed always be sweeter.

My, West Virginia,

You sure are wild and wonderful.