What do you consider home?

When you think of home what comes to mind?

For me its the vibrant streets of the bay (Bay area California). I was born and raised here, it has molded me as a person. I didn't realize how truly special it is here until I left. (that tends to be how it goes with things) Once I was 18 and on my own, bay area prices weren't really up my alley. So I found myself up north in a very rural area. I was in the same state but it felt like a different world. I soon discovered how much I took advantage of my hometown. I took the lifestyle for granted, the abundance of things to do at any given moment. How I could walk to anything I needed within minutes. How close I was to the beach. The list goes on

My memories are forever embedded into these streets. My childhood rooted in every corner. The coffee shop I spent second semester sophomore year doing home study in. The park I went to instead of my freshman English final. The tree that always gives me a strange nostalgic feeling whenever I walk past it. How Haight street will always remind me of my time in the mental hospital. The vinyl shop I always loved searching through, the antique store where the owner still recognizes my face. The mall where I got my first job. The bookstore I used to hide away in because it stayed open late and I knew my mom would never go in there. The beach that I always find myself at late at night when things aren’t going my way. How The ocean makes me forget all my problems. How the waves ground me while simultaneously sending me to the moon.

This is where i feel most myself. This is my home.

I love how I grew up in a place where diversity is accepted and encouraged. Where we were taught from an early age being different is more than okay. There is an energy here that I can't describe with words. All I know is its engrained in me. Its made me who I am. I'm so appreciative of this place I once took advantage of. I'm so blessed I get to live here again. Although no matter where life takes me this will always be my home.

The silly red bridge that should be gold
The fog, the ocean, the energy. My household.
the place that is never quite hot
And never too cold

(I found these cute little flowers by the seaside)

Where is your home? What do you like about it there? What are your favorite memories from your hometown!? I'm interested in knowing what it’s like growing up in other areas of this world!