I don’t know about you, but I am one for getting impatient in my surroundings. I’m the one scouting the rather greener grass in all the other pastures. Not literally, but almost.
In fact, this blog started partially because I got sick of complaining about my town. It’s a small city, and pretty far from all the other cities I know better.
We’ve been here for seven years, and we’re still here. For a long time, I only saw the things that weren’t going on, instead of the things that were. But unfortunately that mindset means missing out on a whole lot.
Lately I am loving our weekends, because we’re spending them enjoying our town. And you know what? My wanderlust, and always seeking being somewhere else? It’s not so fierce anymore.
Do you feel like you’re always looking to be in a different place? Do you, like me, have trouble falling in love with the zip code you’re in? I officially challenge you to date your town! Furthermore, I challenge you to share it on social media! Share your adventures using the hashtag #dateyourtown – I want to see all the cool things to do where you live.
Here are a few ways to try it out:
1. Gather recommendations from people who know. Talk to friends, neighbors, classmates, your kids’ classmates’ families, and people who are “from around here”.
2. Hit up your local community calendar. Check out the newspaper, locally run magazine, and my personal favorite, Facebook events.
3. Go event hopping. Maybe it’s just our area, but they sure like to hold festivals and fundraisers here. We are attending more and more. Something just lifts your spirits when the community gets together over music, activities, and food.
4. Visit your library. It’s a hub for activities, events, and community conversations.
5. Shop local. Try a small business, restaurant, or coffee shop instead of a chain. It’s pretty enlightening to get to talk with the people who are part of building the community and local commerce.
6. Go yard sale hopping or (dream) house hunting. This is a way we get to know the people and the neighborhoods around us.
7. Enjoy public parks. Of course, now that we have kids, I have way more motivation to hang out at the park. But it’s really a cool place to meet all kinds of different people, and appreciate the outdoors where you live.
8. Volunteer. Maybe one of the most sure ways to appreciate your community is to get involved in it. It’s amazing how many needs are around you, no matter where you live.
9. Check out street art, and artwork made by local artisans.
10. Visit wineries, breweries, and other locally-crafted specialties to find out how they are made.
So tell me about you. What are some things that are special about where you live, and how did you find them? Also, don’t forget to post and tag #dateyourtown!
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