Wakefield, Massachusetts isn't a tourist destination. It's not a place people where people dream of raising a family. In fact, most people don't even know it exists. However, I love this place. It's one of my favorite small towns in the world because Wakefield is my home. Sure, it may be easier to just tell someone I'm from Boston when asked where I grew up, so I don't have to explain where this little town resides - but I'm proud to be from Wakefield. It may not be the cleanest, richest, or most historic town, but it's definitely got its perks. I could spend hours listing reasons why Wakefield is the best place to grow up, but I'll keep it short and only share eight.
1. Lake Quannapowitt
Yes, I did have to google that to make sure I spelled it right even though I've lived in Wakefield my whole life. And, no, I am still not 100 percent positive that it is the correct spelling. Lake Q or "The Lake" may not have the cleanest water, but it's still beautiful. There is something for everyone at the lake. You can always take a great photo of it, no matter what time of day it is. The playground that sits near the lake may not be as fun as the old, wooden, rickety playground with the tire swing that was torn down years ago, but it's definitely safer and still really great. And, if by some chance, you're still bored you can always count on chasing the hundreds of geese around the common.
2. The Gazebo
Whether you choose to call it the Gazebo or the Bandstand (even though it's obviously a Gazebo), this little piece of architecture represents a huge part of Wakefield. Almost every middle schooler has heard, "I'll meet you at the Gazebo." or "Let's hang out at the Gazebo tomorrow." There's always at least one person occupying the small space. It's a perfect spot for picnics, photos, or just a shady place to sit.
3. The Restaurants/Shops
Downtown Wakefield has been kind of bare within the past few years. Many shops and restaurants have come and gone. Some that we have loved dearly. For example; the old CVS, the chocolate shop that was there for what seems like a week, the sketchy shoe store, and the strange Kung Fu place. However, there are a select few places that have been here for what seems like forever. Brother's Restaurant, ZuZu's Cafe, Alano's, and Craving's are some Wakefield staples that have resided here for awhile and hopefully will stay for many more years to come.
4. The Wakefield Public Schools
Okay, okay, this one definitely has its cons. However, it has a long list of pros, as well. We have a beautiful new middle school taking the place of the old, mold infested Galvin that will always hold a special place in my heart. The best part about the schools, though, is definitely the staff. We have an upbeat, amazingly crazy high school history teacher, a Spanish teacher who can predict earthquakes, a new librarian who is basically the school's new therapist, and a truly great high school art and English department that is incredibly passionate about what they teach.
5. The 'Wakefield Community Group' Facebook Page
I would personally like to shake the hand of whoever made this page. It has provided me with so much entertainment over the past year. The drama that goes down on this page reminds me of my days in middle school. Despite the craziness that it ensues, it also gives the community of Wakefield a great source of information. Whether it be info on what happened downtown that caused three police cars and a helicopter to show up or the best new place to have breakfast, this page is definitely worth joining if you're from Wakefield. Just be wise about what you post.
6. The Wakefield Warriors
Forget about the controversial name for a moment. In Wakefield, it really is "A great day to be a Warrior". And, yes I'm sick of hearing that quote also, but it really is true. You can tell this by watching the students cheer on the best marching band in the country or the football team at the homecoming game. Spirit week is full of red and white. School pride can be found everywhere when you're a Warrior.
7. The Class of 2015
I may be a little biased on this one, but I honestly believe that the WHS graduating class of 2015 stands out among every other class. We were not just successful in our high school careers; we cared for one another, stayed together among the toughest times, stood up for our beliefs, and proved to people that even though we are young, we have a voice that deserves to be heard. But, most important of all, we raised money for those new flat screen computers in sixth grade and when they gave them to the incoming class the next year, we stood up for our right have access to the computers that should have been ours. Even if that was only for one month. Just kidding. Kind of.
8. The People
If you come to Wakefield, you will find acceptance. No matter your race, sexuality, religion, etc. if you talk to people then you will find someone to call a friend. Wakefield may not be for everyone, but the people who live there long enough understand that it's a special little town. It's not one thing that makes Wakefield unique, it's the many different parts bound together that make this extraordinary place home to many people. So, thank you to the people of Wakefield who have accepted me and have worked to make this community what it is today.
"Where we love is home- home where our feet may leave, but not our hearts."
- Oliver Wendell Holmes
