I love to brag about the many benefits of living in Vermont. My college friends may joke around a say that I live on a farm or am a redneck but I think they are just slightly jealous of the life I live. Coming from a small town has taught me many things in life including to be independent, hardworking and friendly. I have lived in the same town same piece of land all my life and I am sure that after I graduate from college I will be sure to stick around, something about this place is just so addicting. Below is a list of just a few of the many reasons why I love Vermont:

1. Everyone knows everyone.

There is no shame in knowing everyone in your town. I have learned who to avoid, who to stay close with, and valid reasons as to why do either. Yes, news travels faster than you imagine in a small town but that is not always a bad thing. In just a single day you can learn about someone who lives on the other end of town by listening to the gossip that flies around. Sometimes it is the biggest laugh of the town.

2. Woods.

Yes, much to my college friends shock my neighbors are located through the woods. I love being able to walk out of my door and not have my every move be seen by someone down the street or across the road. The woods have played a large role in one of my hobbies as well. Although there may sees to be less deer than there are billboards (yes, billboards are illegal in VT) around here the woods remains tracked up by various animals and is a good place to escape to when I am overwhelmed or stressed.

3. Maple syrup.

I was born the year my dad started making maple syrup and have been sneaking down to the sugar house to steal samples ever since. Although the way we sugar is always a lot of work it is something the whole family looks forward to each any every year. College has got it all wrong that thick Aunt Jemima junk is a poor excuse for maple syrup, so I just bring my own.

4. The 5th season.

Mud Season makes for many adventures on the long dirt roads that I live on. Four wheel drive is a necessity and low riding cars will be the first ones buried in the deep mud holes. Although travel can be made difficult I never turn down a little challenge or adventure.

5. Camping.

It stated when I was young and continues to be a summer tradition today. Although growing up has hindered going as many times as we used to I love the time that my family gets to spend together while traveling and living a much simpler life. Camping will without a doubt always be one of my favorite things to do during the summer months. In Vermont there are many state parks that offer a lot of fun.