For most of my life I've lived in Roxbury, Connecticut, with a population of about 2,000 people, and although there's not much of anything happening here, over the past two years I've learned to love this place and find an appreciation for everything in this area. Although it seems like living in a small town makes you somehow behind in growing up, I wouldn't change anything about what I've learned from my small Roxbury community. Here are 7 attributes of Connecticut that make me finally understand why my parents built a home here for me and my siblings.
1. The scenery
Ashley Mulhare
Connecticut has some of the prettiest views I've ever seen in my life. Although I didn't appreciate it much as a kid, I have a new respect for the scenery in my area. Northwestern Connecticut seems to have everything from mountains to lakes with the best pull off spots for sunsets. Even though we have to deal with rough winters, residents of the area also get to experience the foliage in fall and the excitement of early spring, giving me such an appreciation for our beautiful environment.
2. Everyone knows everyone
Even when this can seem like a negative, living in a small town allows you to make really strong relationships with kids living in your area. I've been best friends with the same group of kids since 6th grade and have been in school with many of them since Kindergarten. You learn a lot and are able to grow together when you are spending your entire day with each other, from 7 in the morning till 6 at night after sports practices.
3. There's more to do than you think
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Even though my town has one restaurant and the nearest movie theater is 15 minutes away, my friends and I have realized that not having anything to do tends to be the most fun. Whether it be going on an afternoon hike or camping in the yard binge watching movies, living in Roxbury forces you to be more creative in finding ways to have fun on a budget with little resources.
4. Food!!
No matter where I travel I always seem to look for places similar to the destinations I have at home. With the cutest restaurants serving the best, local, organic food, don't be surprised by the cuisine in Connecticut, it's worth every penny.
5. Connections go a long way
Every person you meet in your life has entered your world for a reason, so don't take them for granted. Small town people won't take advantage of you, and are normally some of the nicest people I've ever met. I am appreciative of every one of them and their stories will influence my entire life.
6. Loyalty goes a long way
Shopping local is what makes small towns like mine thrive. Staying faithful to small businesses around the area has taught me a lot about loyalty and how supporting others always pays off. There's always hidden treasures around, sometimes you just have to search for them!
7. Home is home
No matter how far away you go or for how long you travel, small towns will always be there, waiting for you to come back with open arms, ready to hear all about your experiences.
