I love where I live. I've always wanted to feel that about a place. To have a draw and connection to the community, the location, the activities. I've admired. Appreciated. Definitely liked. This time, I LOVE.
It's an unexplainable feeling. I could point to what's going on, and I will in a moment, but my affection for this place goes way beyond the describable. I had all but given up, figuring home really is in the heart. Then I came here.
First, the people are friendly. I know, weird, right? It was for me at first. I didn't understand what they wanted or why they were talking to me. I had not realized that living in the Bay Area, I had a guard up and a perpetually "I'm busy" sign energetically planted in my front yard. Now, I'm so used to chatting it up with folks, when I go back to visit my hometown of Oakland, I keep on talking often to a look of blank responses.
Second, lots of cultural events. From the Sierra Storytelling Festival to The Center for the Arts to The Magic Theater to the Wild & Scenic Environmental Film Festival to the Victorian Christmas and so much more.
Third, and most importantly - for me, the river. This river is like sweet nectar for my soul. Here's a taste:
Do you love where you live? If so, what about it makes it special? If not, what kind of place would you like to live in?
More river pictures...
that's how I feel about Oregon. when I crossed the border, I felt at home immediately, and I still well up with gratitude and joy that I get to actually live here. it reminds me of a quote I heard, "home may not be where you grew up, but you will know it when you are there".
Posted by: elizabeth | May 23, 2009 at 12:21 PM
I'm so glad you have that too. I figure, if I'm in the right place geographically, the one that feels like home, then everything else will naturally fall into place. It's the "Of course" philosophy.
Posted by: Vanessa Smith | May 26, 2009 at 11:41 AM