As I was growing up I was always envious of the people that lived in states that didn't have to deal with temperatures dropping into the negatives with the possibility of the dreaded lake effect snow pretty much every day. I wanted to wake up every day and spend the day on the beach, swimming and soaking up the sun. I have had the opportunity to travel and see a few tropical Caribbean islands and pretty much the whole state of Florida. I have loved everywhere I have visited but when I actually considered moving, I realized something was missing.
Those places aren't home. Anyone that has grown up in Northeast Ohio shares the same pride for Cleveland. It is where our parents took us to see our first Cavs, Indians and Browns games when we were little. It's where our elementary school field trips always led us. It's where we have spent so many crazy, fun nights out. Cleveland will always be home, no matter where I live. With that being said, here are several reasons why Cleveland is the best!
1. We have LeBron.
This obviously has to be number one because the NBA playoffs just started and there is nothing this city needs more than a championship. We, as a city, support our sports teams until the end. I, along with everyone else, remembers the awful day LBJ decided to head to Miami. At that point we had lost all hope. But thankfully LeBron made the best decision ever to come back and win one at home. As you can all imagine, this was a great day to be a Clevelander. This is our year guys! Let's go Cavs!!
2. We experience all four seasons.
I will be the first to admit that I am not a fan of the extreme winter weather us northeastern Ohioans have to endure. There are times I wake up and instantly question why I had to be born in a place where I can't wear shorts 365 days of the year but let's be honest, it would be weird not seeing snow in the winter time. It is what we have become accustomed to. We are lucky to live in a place that gets to experience all four seasons. Summers are great because it gets hot enough that having a pool comes in handy. If you are lucky enough to know someone with a boat, then there is nothing nicer than a day spent out on the lake soaking up the sun. Fall in Ohio is beautiful. We all know that. The only bad part about fall is knowing that winter is that much closer to us. At least we have spring to look forward to!
3. World class hospitals.
Cleveland is known across the country and even internationally for our phenomenal hospitals. Between University Hospitals and The Cleveland Clinic, you will be very well taken care of.
4. Lake Erie.
Often times I think we all take for granted how lucky we are to live so close to a great lake. There are so many people in this world that have never seen such a large body of water. I have friends in other states that had absolutely no idea that a lake could actually have a beach to enjoy. But we have it right around the corner. I'm not much of a Lake Erie beach goer, but I'll take a day on a boat any day!
5. Nightlife.
Downtown Cleveland offers a fun and exciting night life atmosphere. If you're feeling like dancing and having a crazy, wild time then West 6th is the place for you. If you feel like a more relaxing, chill night then head to Ohio City and enjoy the night on West 25th. East 4th is also a fun alternative to the party scene and a fun place to stop before or after a Cavs or Indians game. Recently, the Flats have made a comeback offering new, fun places to go and hang out with your friends and socialize. Another area that has recently received a revival and renovation is Playhouse Square. I love the chandelier and all the new touches they have added to the area. It looks very classy and welcoming. No matter where you choose to go downtown, you will be surrounded by good people and a fun time!
6. Sports.
I literally couldn't imagine growing up in a city that didn't have pro sports teams. Growing up in Cleveland comes with so much pride for the Cavs, Browns and Indians. I don't know anyone that doesn't enjoy a day downtown cheering for any one of these teams. We all shared in the same joy when Johnny came to CLE, (short lived, I know) when the Cavs made it to the NBA finals last season and when the Indians' celebrated opening day a couple of weeks ago. No matter how successful our teams are, we will always defend them to anyone. I'm pretty sure we all feel the same disgust when we see those dreaded black and yellow towels or when someone mentions Golden State. I don't even think I need to mention the team up north either, because that's a whole other story. It's frowned upon around here to speak of that team, so I'll leave it at this, go Buckeyes!
There are so many wonderful things that make living in Northeast Ohio awesome. So let's embrace where we came from and take advantage of all the great things and opportunities that Cleveland and surrounding areas offer us! And, for one more final time, go Cavs!
