I’m proud to say I’m from “just outside of Boston.” While the saying may be far too commonly heard at small liberal arts schools like Kenyon, I’ve always associated a sense of comfort with anyone who uses the same phrase. Even though I grew up in a suburb rather than directly in the city, Boston, with all of its thick accents, brick streets, and die-hard sports fans will always be home. Trips down to the city as a kid always filled me with a sense of joy. Even though I do appreciate the quiet, removed cul-de-sac that is Gambier, I often yearn to experience the bustling noises of the city on a more daily basis. While the Boston.Com Instagram account I follow gives me a daily dose of my favorite city, it always leaves me yearning to transport myself back home. Since I can’t do that for another two weeks, I’m inviting you all to join me as I reflect on some of the things that I miss most about being in a city.
- The Traffic.
I offer this suggestion with a grain of salt. I’m not the biggest fan of traffic itself, but the experience that it provides. Driving through the city or sitting on the highway for minutes on end can be the perfect opportunity to chat with family or friends as the cars slowly drag on, or blast music and roll the windows down. I, particularly, have a soft spot for the bright orange sunsets that accompany particularly rough traffic jams—there’s something so cozy about witnessing the sky change as the city prepares for night. The Citgo sign that peers over the skyline during a sunset is always the cherry on top—and a reminder of my favorite city.
2) The People.
I love the chaotic and devoted energy of Bostonians, both near and far. There’s truly a fluttery feeling in your chest when all of Fenway Park is singing “Sweet Caroline” at the same time—we are incredibly passionate about the things we love, one another, and the traditions that we cherish. The Boston Marathon has been a part of my family for years on end, with my dad running it three times. Each year, my family turns out to cheer on the runners—there is always an unavoidable sense of community and strength, rain or shine. We truly are Boston Strong, and I am proud to be a Bostonian as I watch runners cross the halfway mark in my hometown each year.
3) There’s always something going on.
Whether it be wandering down Newbury street, heading to a sports game, a concert, or gabbing something to eat, Boston is filled with wonderful things to do. Even wandering in the city during the afternoon with friends is filled with entertainment: Faneuil Hall, Copley Square, and the North End are some of my favorite spots to venture in and take in the sights. In my humble opinion, Boston is one of the most beautiful cities in the world! I love the coziness of the bricks and old history in the North End and the hustle and bustle of the entertainment district. There’s truly something for everyone!
5) The Food.
Especially when it comes to the North End, the food in Boston is hard to beat. I could go on for days listing my favorite Italian restaurants—shoutout to Giacomo’s, Mike’s Pastry, and Mamma Maria—or cafes and eateries to swing by, including Boston Public Market. And who can forget about the ever so timeless cup of clam chowder? I can’t wait to get home for Thanksgiving break and frequent all of my favorite spots, or stroll through the Boston Public gardens with a cup of coco in my hand, admiring the Christmas lights set up around the city. Christmas in Boston is my favorite time of year, with people sliding over the Duck Pond, an ice rink set up in the middle of the Boston Public Gardens, holiday shoppers bustling down the street, stores and hotels decked out in decor, and the sense of anticipation that hangs in the air. The classic architecture compliments this perfectly, giving Boston a cozy Christmas look that would fit perfectly on top of a postcard.
Well, with this rant concluded, I hope you can tell how excited I am to be going back home in two weeks. As the plane will descend over the skyline I call home, I’ll feel the familiar fluttering of butterflies in my chest, knowing I’m back where I truly belong.