Never did I think I would miss my hometown when I moved out to go to college –– boy was I wrong. Coming back each and every time feels like home and that feeling can't be felt anywhere else. For those of you who have grown up in the quaint little town of Medford, here are 11 things we all can relate to:
1. When Medport was open 24 hours.
Once we had gotten our drivers licenses, and wanted somewhere “cool” to drive to, Medport was the perfect spot –– the only late-night diner in town. After every summertime concert I went to, my friends and I always ended up there. Even though on the outside it looks pretty beat up and the lobby still smells like cigarettes, we still go for the chocolate chip pancakes.
2. No, we are not Medford Lakes.
People who aren’t from around here don’t seem to understand the difference between Medford and Medford Lakes. We are two separate towns with different school systems. Anytime I hear someone say that they’re “basically the same thing,” I make sure to explain to them the difference!
3. You have left your mark on Apple Pie Hill.
Yes, for fun we would climb a fire tower in the middle of the Pine Barrens. We all have pictures taken from the very top, and our names are probably written somewhere on the red and white metal with Sharpie.
4. Friday nights were spent under the lights.
Every Friday night, everyone went to the Shawnee Football game. Regardless of what the record was that year, the stands were always packed. Shawnee sports were huge and every win was a celebration. Lucky for my graduating class-- we won states!
5. Thanksgiving Eve at Ott’s.
Were you even home for Thanksgiving if you didn’t go to Ott’s?!? An old ongoing tradition is that everyone and I mean EVERYONE goes to Ott’s (one of the only 2 bars in town) the night before Thanksgiving. It’s comparable to a giant high school reunion with your class as well as those older and younger than you-- but it’s always a blast.
6. The go-to beach for a quick trip is LBI.
Since we live right near 206, going to LBI is a no-brainer. We can get there in about 45 minutes if we drive fast enough (which we do.) It’s super convenient and is one of the nicest beaches! We’re lucky to live so close.
7. You have a lake within 5 minutes of your house.
In Medford, so many lakes surround us that everyone lives close to one. Personally, my house is only a short walk away from a lake. Since there are so many, most of the time one is never too crowded!
8. PJ’s is always packed.
Since it is one of the few restaurants in the area (yes, it's in Medford Lakes), PJ Whelihan’s is usually crowded. After any sort of function, school dance, etc. people flock to PJ’s. You will never go there and not see someone that you know. Most of the time, you see your high school teachers sitting at the bar… awkward!
9. You went off-roading for fun.
Because we pretty much live in the sticks, it’s hard to find things to do. Growing up, someone you knew had a Jeep or a Truck. You would take it through the woods and drive it through the mud and lakes. Although, usually with a car packed full of kids it wasn’t always the safest idea, it was a great time.
10. Location, location, LOCATION!
Honestly, we live in the best spot. We’re close to the beach, two major cities, AND the mountains. No matter what you’re in the mood to do, we’re a short drive away from it!
11. Fall is the most beautiful time of year.
Because we live practically in the woods and near so many lakes, autumn is absolutely gorgeous here. The leaves start to change color and you can still canoe around on the water –– it’s the best. Not to mention, it makes for a very picturesque background.
Sure, like any town we all may have our differences. And, although the Medford 08055 Facebook group can get a little heated at times, I love the little town that I get to call home –– and I'm sure I'm not alone in saying that, either.
