Northampton is a cement town. While the cement industry no longer dominates the area, the students of Northampton High School will always be the Konkrete Kids and the town's history will always remain in collective memory. Going to Northampton led to some pretty unique experiences that many of my fellow classmates also indulged in. While some may refer to Northampton as a small town, in the grand scheme of things, it's not that small, and it has given me so much. I have so many memories that I will never forget.

There were the local hang outs. Going to Taylor Roasted Coffee House was a must. On the days when drama rehearsal didn't start until four I'd pile as many people into my tiny car as I could and we would drive down to the coffee shop, excited to get our hands on some coffee, tea or smoothies. The Roxy movie theater was the perfect friend date because for $10 two people could go see a movie and get popcorn. And I'll never forget going to Rita's on the first day of spring after drama rehearsal, only to wait in line for over an hour to choose from one of the three flavors of ice that still remained.

Then there were the uneven sidewalks that were often a person's downfall. I'll never forget that time during winter track when I tripped going downhill and then couldn't find the trainer for what seemed like hours to wrap my wound. There were the narrow streets that were horrifying to drive on. Cars lined each side of the street leaving very little space for the moving cars to come and go.

And we can't forget the hidden gems that linger around Northampton. The cement platform down by the river on Canal Street where you can float your cares away. The trestle, hidden from view where kids would go to see how brave they were. I did not get very far across, but I've heard stories of teenagers who walked the entire thing. The winding back roads lined with quaint homes, perfect for afternoon bike rides.

Growing up I never thought I'd miss my town. I felt I had outgrown it, but now when I go back I see it with different eyes. Sure, maybe Main Street isn't the prettiest, maybe the sidewalks are deadly, and maybe there aren't that many places to go after 9 p.m., but I think a part of my heart will always reside in Northampton.