Dear state I grew up in,

It’s been a little while, and I’m missing you. The way the mountains look when I’m driving west down your pothole filled streets that I learned to drive on, the high school that was the foundation for so many memories, as well as the park where I scuffed my knee when I ran too fast down the path towards the swings; I’ve been missing you.

There was something special about the way the light would hit you on those summer nights while we played in the streets, the sound of laughter and birds chirping filling the air, and nothing tasted as sweet as the lemonade we would make. Did you know that happiness has a smell? Well, I do. The smell is that beautiful scent after rain as the sun is peeking through the clouds. It’s pure happiness. Thank you for giving me these memories.

State I grew up in, you made me who I am. You have given me a love for the city and a love for the outdoors, you’ve provided me with the greatest sense of wanderlust for which there is seemingly no cure. You spoiled me with kind people and stunning weather; your fall leaves wrapped around me like a comforting hug during the days of my childhood and your snow made for the perfect bonding between friends. Thank you to the hill at the park which taught me to not to care about grass stains, but to care about the people you’re rolling down the hill with.

You have kept me safe and comfortable for all of these years. You raised me with my parents. Your mountains were my secret hiding place when the real world became too much and no matter the season I arrived to them in, they welcomed me with open arms. Your trees made great hiding places or nooks to read against, the shade providing solace from your sun’s power. State I grew up in, it hasn't always been easy and we’ve been through some very hard things, but your people rallied together each and every time and became stronger, because like you we refuse to be anything less than magnificent.

I know I had to leave you. It was a tear-filled goodbye because within you are things so near and dear. Please know that even outside of your state limits I am very much yours; my heart is filled with “purple mountains majesty” and orange and blue runs through my veins. I wave your flag with pride. State I grew up in, you will always be my home, no matter how far I go. I will always come back to you: where else can I experience all the seasons in one day? You’ve spoiled me, you’ve blessed me and for the person you’ve made me I am forever grateful.

Thank you for everything,

Your hometown girl.