Clemmons is one of those small towns that you can't wait to leave, but find yourself longing to come back home. The house I grew up in has been sold and I now live in Charlotte, but Clemmons will always hold a special place in my heart. When I think of my hometown, these are all of the things I miss.
1. Clemmons United Methodist Church
This was the church I grew up in and was baptized in. I've seen the community both grow and decline. I've seen how much everyone cares for one another and how big their focus is not only on God, but on the importance of the youth in the church. A lot of students that went to my elementary school went to this church, and everyone and their families knew each other. I only wish I had a church community here in Charlotte that is as phenomenal as Clemmons United Methodist Church.
2. Snowflake lights
For as long as I can remember, snowflake flights would be posted all over the city when it got close to the holidays. I remember as a child looking out of the car window at all of them and how exciting it was to know it was getting close to Christmas.
3. Tanglewood
Tanglewood is hands down the best park in the world, and there is no way you can change my mind. I remember going there for picnics, the pool, bike riding, playgrounds, and being able to explore all over the abandoned train. There was nothing better than a day at Tanglewood. And then around the Holidays, the Tanglewood Festival of Lights was always a fun activity - even if it was the same lights year after year. I never got tired of it.
4. Neighborhood friends
Clemmons is filled with many big neighborhoods like Clemmons West, Salem Glenn, and Asbury Place. I grew up in Clemmons West and had the best childhood with the best friends that lived right beside me. We would have huge 4th of July Parties and random get-togethers as neighbors over the years. Having a swing-set and a trampoline, me and my friends always had a blast.
6. Time-To-Eat
Possibly the best "mom and pop" restaurant there is..and don't try to debate me on that. Whether it was for Friday night dinner or Sunday lunch, I always loved going to Time-To-Eat and getting chicken tenders and homemade ice-cream.
7. West Forsyth High School
Although I'm glad I'm not in High School anymore, I'm flooded with good memories every time I pass it. Everyone always had so much pride in their school and especially at football games. It is a place I will always call home and a school I am so proud to call my alma mater.
8. Chick-fil-A
For my entire childhood, there was always talk about Chick-fil-A and how everyone in Clemmons wanted one, but we never got one...until now. Why did they decide to give us a Chick-fil-A after I moved away?
I will always think of you as home, Clemmons. Thank you for being such a big part of my childhood and being there for me around every curve. I hope someday I can move back.
