Appreciation: Friends, Wedding, Home, and Family

Adam and I just returned from a trip to Ohio where we visited his family in Cinncinati and my family in Columbus (where we met to celebrate Jenna's wedding!) Being in Ohio made me realize just how much I miss it. I honestly consider it my home. It feels a little weird saying that since I spent a majority of my life in Connecticut. However, I have always been drawn to Ohio. Some of the best memories of my childhood were spent in Columbus, among my cousins, aunt, uncles, and grandparents.

There is something truly different about midwestern people. You just can't fully appreciate it until you've known it and then leave it behind. I miss walking down the street, saying hello to someone, and having them smile back with a genuine greeting. I miss being crazy at the Hibbards. I miss watching Adam and his friends get drunk and wrestle. I miss late-night pizzas and bars. I miss not having bikers, runners, joggers - all around work-out/health fanatics everywhere you go. I miss not being judged on the size of my body, my mood, my level of intelligence or humor. I miss greenery and the smell of a really old forest. I miss the familiarity of neighborhoods with friends and family. I miss losing control and being okay with it. I miss a family that never fails to support, encourage, and love me - no matter what. I can't wait to get out of this state, this town, this college. I just want to be done. I want to be doing what I love, around people that I love, and be comfortable doing it. I don't want to worry about fitting in anymore. I don't want to be in a place where I feel that I have to fit in.

Luckily I have a few close friends here who help me get a taste of what I am constantly missing. Honestly, if it weren't for them I don't know where I would be. To all of you (you know who you are ladies) - words can't capture my gratitude.

In conclusion, I want to raise my glass of water (no more booze after a 3 day Ohio drinking binge and 2 day hangover) to friends, family, Ohio, and the future of Jenna and Ryan Wollenberg :)