ABC's and 123's: Journal- Where I Am From

I was born in Falls Church, Virginia. I grew up in multiple different cities and houses but my true home was in Fairmont, WV at age 9. I consider Fairmont my hometown because all of my family is from here and I was always connected to it even when I didn't live here. My home in Fairmont overlooks the Tygart River and is my favorite view and scenery. While standing in our living room you can see the train tracks on the other side of the river, boat docks everywhere, and the river flowing Northward. The view from my house triggers so many memories and childhood feelings, it's my favorite view!

Growing up it was just my dad, mom, sister, and I. Along with us four we had two dogs that were a huge impact in my childhood. Although there were only four of us, we always had our neighbors who became like grandparents to me and my family members near by. My grandma's house was one of my favorite places to go as a child. All of my aunts and uncles and cousins always gathered together at grandmas house on holidays and it was and still is my favorite family tradition. Being with my whole family brings me more joy then anything else.

My mom, aunt, and uncles grew up in the same house my grandma still lives in today. I love hearing stories about which kid had which room and how they always fought over who had to share rooms. My mom lived in that house until she got married at age 17 to my dad. This is another one of my favorite stories. My parents dated for a couple years and after my mom graduated high school they decided to get married. My dad was living in Virginia while my mom was still in Fairmont so getting married was a way for them to finally be together, They got married, she was 17, he was 23. After being married for four years they decided to have a kid, and that's when my sister was born. 5 years later I came along.

Not only is my family amazing but my town is also. Fairmont is it's own unique little town. It's a little town where everybody knows everybody. Where everyone wants their local pepperoni rolls or Muriale's Italian food. Where high school sports are a huge competition, especially the legendary East-West rivalry. Fairmont is my home and always will be, it's unique in every way, shape, and form.

From the boat during summer!