Since I was little, I have always called Ocean City, New Jersey, my home.
All of the memories that stem from there, are filled with so much love and happiness.
I am fortunate enough to have a house to reside at and use in the summers and throughout the year.
Just the thought of the shore brings a warmth to my heart.
Automatically, I am put on the beach. Laying on my chair, my body absorbing every ray of sunshine, the warmth of the sand felt between my toes, the breeze hitting my face to blow my hair in disarray, hearing the waves recede and come again, the seagulls above me, the kids laughing, the music playing. Pure and utter happiness.
From going to Playland Castaway Cove rides to Prep's pizza to the 7th street surf shop, there is so much I love.
As a kid, I spent all of my summer's walking up and down that boardwalk with my friends and family. We would spend hours on rides and the little money we had at Jilly's arcade or the dollar store.
It's where I grew up.
Every year, something new comes along or changes. But I will always know Ocean City as the place that shaped me into who I am.
It saw me when I was just learning to walk, when I went to the beach for the first time, when I was trying to learn who I am, when I figured out my passion, and when I got my first job.
I have celebrated every 4th of July, Memorial Day, Labor Day and I even celebrated a Christmas there once.
It has seen me in the most joyous times of my life and the devastating ones.
I've spent the past five summers working down there and appreciated every moment of it all.
All the nights spent on the boardwalk or on my family's porch partying or at the arcade at 2 am, laughing until I can't feel my face.
All the days filled with the beach, the bay, surfing in the morning, paddle-boarding, or riding bikes.
If there's anywhere you need to go, all you need is a bike and I love it.
Nothing beat grabbing Aunt Betty's Icecream on a hot day or running to Blitz's to get a stock pile of candy.
I've met so many people who have brought so much light into my life. Who have changed my perspective and have been there for me.
All of these beautiful moments made were because of Ocean City.
It's my safe haven.
It's the place I go to when I need to think or I need to get away from everyone else.
It's my home.
