Tourist in Your Hometown

Returning home was interesting. It had been 18 months since I last visited. I usually worry about my trip because I hate the drama of seeing family and friends, unsure of what type of welcome I'll receive. I was shocked to have my brother ask for an opportunity to talk. After all these years of me begging and pleading, who knew we could have an enjoyable moment together?

My disinterest in Florida has not changed, so I was unsure how I would feel this time around. I discovered I do miss certain things about Florida; moments with my family, seeing my nieces grow up, Michelle and our friendship. I also realized I miss the beach; the sounds, the feel, and the beauty. I never thought much of the beach before, but Lake Michigan does not compare to the Gulf. I miss being around other Gators and knowing there is a place I can go and surround myself with other fanatics and enjoy the ups and downs of our team.

With all the things I miss, one would think I would question my decision to move away, but there are a great many things that make me yearn for my home in Indiana. Visiting Florida, I felt as if I was a tourist and was actually labeled that during this trip. The morning I flew down, it was a nice 50 something. Then I arrived to what felt like a nice 80 something degree temperature, which grew into an uncomfortable too warm heat. The too cool water in the Gulf was comfortably pleasant to this tourist, while I collected shells from the water. This was an experience I hadn't enjoyed since childhood and I relished in it.

The traffic and long drives to get to the other side of town were further reminders of why I love where I live. Why should it take 45 minutes, plus two toll roads, to visit the west burbs from the south burbs? Of course, flying at 80 mph down the roadway is similar to a roller coaster. Though I miss certain restaurants, I didn't feel as comfortable at my favorite bar this time. Maybe I've grown used to my surroundings and enjoy the rustic feel of my haunts in Indiana. When visiting my former library, I felt reminiscent, but recognized I had moved on and wouldn't fit in any longer. Of course, having a few people tell me not to rub it in that "I'm doing really really well," may have helped with that sentiment.

All in all, I can finally say, I am a tourist in my hometown, and have created a new home in the North.