I live in a small, sleepy town just outside of the Wyoming Valley in Northeastern PA. I like to say it's "nestled in the foothills of the Poconos." It's my home, and it will always be home. I live in a small development just off of the highway, and when you turn into the development, it is pure peacefulness and bliss.
I have a creek that runs almost parallel to my house. When I was little my father and I used to always go and play in it. I can remember building "dams" with rocks and having picnics by the creek. It was my happy place.
As I got older, I was able to explore more of where I live. Right down the road is a beautiful waterfall that I didn't discover until last year. The falls is my new happy place, It's off the beaten path and nestled in the woods. Its away from the hustle and bustle of the Valley. It's where I go to think, pray, meditate and just relax.
The best part about living in the Pocono Mountains is seeing the mountains and the change with the seasons. In Autumn, everything turns into brilliant shades of Red, orange and yellow, and the crisp autumn air is something that can't be put into words.
Winter brings heavy snow and ice, which makes everything look like a beautiful winter escape. Sometimes I can't get down the mountain because of the snow! The most amazing thing is when it is raining down in the valley, it's more than likely snowing up at home.
Spring is my favorite season up here on the mountain. The cold, darkness of winter gives way to the trees starting to come back to life. My mom's garden begins to teem with life as the fresh smell of our lilac bushes fill the air. The best part about spring is the amazing sunrises that start to happen. The sunrises and sunsets are my favorite parts of the day. It's nature's way of saying Good Morning" and "Good Night" in the most spectacular fashion.
The summer brings heat and humidity. But on the mountain, it's a cool oasis from the blistering heat that can sometimes encapsulate the valley. There is a good five to seven degree difference from where I live on top of the mountain to the bottom of it. Although in the winter it proves to be a challenge, when summer rolls around I'm thankful for that change in the temperature. Most people who I know don't like the Valley. I can't say that, since I don't live in that area. Even though where I live is a 10 mile drive from it, it feels like 1000 miles sometimes. I am forever grateful that I live in such a wonderful part of Pennsylvania, which, to me, is perfection.