There's No Place Like Home...

I am packing up and getting to go back and see my parents and friends in my hometown. As much as I love living in Houston, I miss all things familiar. It is as much an emotional journey for me as it is a physical one. I left my hometown and moved to the "big city" of Cleveland in my 20's. I never really looked back after that.
After I had my children, I noticed how much I wanted to visit Barberton, and show them where I came from and all the things that are ingrained in me now. Growing up in a small town has it's drawbacks, to be sure. But I understand now, why it's so very important to appreciate all the folks who love and appreciate you from home. My friends, most of them I have known all my life. We went to grade school, junior high school and then high school together. They got to see all the times I was a real jackass and witness my coming of age into being a civilized human being. They got to see all of it because in a small town there is no place to hide. They are also the first ones to show up with food after a tragedy. They will help in any way they can when someone needs it. These are the people who are my soft place to fall. Even though I live in Houston, I will be theirs too, if they need me.
This time when I go home, I get to be living proof that dreams can come true. I finally, lived up to my potential. My high school teachers should be thrilled. Those cats have waited over 40 years! I always was a late bloomer. I plan to go everywhere I can, taking in the sights and smells, touching every hand I recognize and allowing myself to sink fully into it. I miss being able to just drive down the road an hour to visit. I had taken it all for granted. I have the unique opportunity to appreciate my hometown and the people who make it home to me, while I am young and vibrant enough to do it. I am grateful. especially today, as I pack to make my way back, that I learned one of life's most important lessons before it was too late. There's no place like home.