Growing up in "Glosta" is an experience unlike any other. Before college, the longest I had ever been off the island was ten days. I remember I couldn't wait to get out of Gloucester and go to college, but now that I am in college all I want to do is come home for the summer. There are many reasons why I love living in Gloucester but since that would take too long here's 11 reasons why I love growing up in Gloucester.

1. Having the same friends since elementary school/ middle school

Yup, that's a picture from middle school (I'm so sorry guys) but I've known all of these ladies since elementary school and am still friends with them now! I've grown up with same kids my entire life. It's amazing to see how much my friends have grown these past years and being able to laugh about all the weird awkward times in elementary and middle school.

2. The beach!

Growing up, I spent a lot of my down time during the summers at Good Harbor and Winga. Unfortunately I have college to pay for so you can see me spending my days serving super melts and loaded waffle fries.

3. Fiesta!

Fiesta is the best time to be from Glosta. You knew it was fiesta time when they would start building this stage. It's crazy to think that this stage and all of the rides and games fit into this one tiny parking lot. Vivaaa!

4. The greasy pole!

A tradition during Fiesta. Who doesn't love to see grown men dressed up in costumes walking across a pole filled with grease trying to get an Italian flag that's at the end? Laughing and cringing as they fall into the water.

5. The back shore

Nothing beats taking a ride down the back shore and looking at all the mansions that you can't have. Luckily the view of the water is the best.

6. The sunsets

Gloucester has some of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen. Every time I go on Instagram I always see amazing pictures of the ocean with the sunset in the background and sometimes I try to take good ones.

7. The FOOD

I can't wait to hit up every food spot that I love. Charlie's Place, Cafe Bischo, Captain Carlos', Jalapenos, The Gloucester House, Long Beach Dairy Maid... I could go on and on.

8. Always seeing someone you know every time you leave your house

Okay maybe I don't always love this one...especially when I look like a hot mess, but sometimes it is nice to see someone you know especially if you haven't seen them for awhile!

9. The fishermen statue

I love walking on the boulevard and being able to see this statue for all the fishermen that were lost at sea. Tourists come from all over just to take a picture with this statue.

10. Every time I leave, I always want to come back

Yes sometimes I do get sick of Gloucester, but every time I'm gone longer than a week I always can't wait to come back.

11. It's home

I love my home and would not have wanted to grow up anywhere else. I am grateful for all the people in my life because of growing up in Gloucester. No matter where I go, I will always know Gloucester as my home.