I grew up in the small town of Mount Washington, Kentucky. With a population of barely 12,000 people, this is home to me. It only consists of one high school, two middle schools, and four elementary schools. But it will always be where my home roots are and where I had my best and worst moments of the crazy merry-go-round we call life.

Mount Washington truly is a one of a kind place. I take such huge pride in this small town. The small things like knowing everyone at the local grocery store, or coffee shop is one of my favorites. Growing up and going to school with the same people from elementary school up until high school graduation follows right behind. In Mount Washington, there are many traditions. Fridays were meant who football, Saturdays were meant for bonfires, and Sundays were meant for church and family. These small things are some of the biggest reasons I wish I could be home more. I never want to lose that sense of "home."

Driving down Main Street, you'll find all kinds of small and family ran businesses. These are some of the best places to visit. They truly do make you feel like you're a part of their own family's through their warm southern hospitality. Specifically, Maggie Mae's cafe is a small coffee shop owned by a couple that I enjoy oh so much. Every morning on my way to school, I would stop by and get coffee, only to find myself running late to class because I got caught up in a lovely conversation about who knows what with the owners. Don't worry mom, I made it on time.

The patriotism in this small town is one huge characteristic I admire greatly about my hometown. You never fail to see an American flag flying by every chain of restaurants or stores, and just about every other house you drive by. You'll also find bumper stickers on about every car supporting one of all our amazing military branches with "Army Mom," or "Marine Sister," and so on proudly displayed. There are many veterans who have retired here and working at the Subway in town, I had the pleasure of meeting many veterans and their families.

Although I had many moments in high schools that I dreamed of going away far from Mount Washington after graduation. I wanted something more than everyone knowing me--I wanted a clean slate and a new start. As much as I love having a new chapter in life being away at college where almost no one knew me or my past, I look back and I now realize that its truly the only place I feel at home.

Some people still say they can't wait to leave. Some people hope they never have to. And then some people hope that once they have a family of their own, they want to live in Mount Washington. I couldn't blame them. With the southern hospitality found in every corner of this town, you honestly couldn't find a better place to raise children and have a family. I hope that this town never loses it's unique charm and continues to have a positive impact on people's lives as it did my own.

Thank you, Mount Washington

I wouldn't be who I am today without you.