I'm So Connecticut

July 23, 2014

The state of Connecticut isn't always thought of as a vacation destination or even much more than a rest stop along a route heading elsewhere. Growing up in Connecticut was good at best; my family could go to the beach, a park, an ice rink, or even a museum if we so desired. Our neighborhoods were packed with kids, tree houses, and friendly faces. There were occasional sporting events to attend (RIP Hartford Whalers and New Haven Ravens) and there were good schools where my sister and I made great friends. Connecticut is lucky enough to experience all four seasons which means there's always something else to look forward to from Mother Nature. We are also a state fortunate enough to be considered part of picturesque New England yet also part of the hustling, bustling Tri-State Area. Connecticut is a unique place. A place known for high taxes, bad highways, rich people, and poor people. A state where native Connecticuters speak with no accent and drive with no road rage, (ha.) A state who can't quite pick out her own nickname, are we The Constitution State or The Nutmeg State? Are we really Still Revolutionary? We love Mark Twain, New Haven pizza, and a whole variety of New York or Boston sports team. And hey, how 'bout them Huskies?? Connecticut seems to be a little bit here and little bit there, and she can't quite make up her mind.

As a teenager my friends and I thought Connecticut was terribly boring. Where could we hang out besides in our bedrooms or parents' basements? What was there to do on a Friday night besides go to a friend's house? These thoughts had my wheels spinning when it came time for college. The first time I stepped foot in The Big Apple I fell in love. I felt like I couldn't get lost but could get absolutely wrapped up in the loud taxis, the variety of people, and the notion that if you could make it there, you could make it anywhere. I was a city girl at heart and felt that it was where I wanted to be and live- for the rest of my life. Connecticut didn't have bright enough lights or late enough nights. It didn't offer me gigantic sky scrapers that together made a skyline like no other. I had to be in New York.

In August of 2005 I moved into my dorm at St. John's University in Queens, New York. A completely different world than my small Connecticut hometown. It was a culture shock to say to the least, and I was ready for it with open arms. To fast forward, I lived in Queens for six years and went through the love/hate relationship as most people might. I loved that there was always something to do, I loved that it was diverse and unique, and I loved that I was a stone's throw away from exploring all the different nooks and crannies of New York City. I hated that there was nowhere to put the snow, I hated parallel parking, and I hated not having a back yard. As time went on, the simplest things that I look for granted in Connecticut, began to be the things that I missed the most. I left Queens with lifelong friends, unforgettable memories, Red Storm pride, and a Bachelor's degree and Master's degree, yet it wasn't feeling quite like home anymore. I packed up a UHaul and waved goodbye to a city like no other. It was emotional for sure, but I knew it was time to go home.

In June of 2011 I moved back to my small Connecticut hometown and have gained an unending appreciation for such a fantastically alive and beautiful state. My mom looked at me like I was crazy when I would marvel over how the back yard was just so big and lush, and oh so green. I live on my own now, with my boyfriend, in another small Connecticut town, and as an adult I have grown to appreciate Connecticut's beauty, history, and endless opportunities. Just this past week, we spent a few days exploring the state. It was a weekend full of awe-inspiring moments, of views that took my breath away, and of the utmost gladness to be living in a state so gorgeous and quiet. It's a place that is most certainly overlooked, a state commonly used just to drive through en route to other states, and a place that most people think of as ordinary. However, it was yet another chance for Connecticut to shine and secretly show off. As a teacher in Hartford I've learned a lot about the state and a lot about the capital city. I've grown to appreciate the history that Hartford has and the fact that there is always something exciting going on. Thanks to my involvement with HYPE, I've met some fantastic people and spend a lot of time volunteering to better improve the city of Hartford. Connecticut is a secret gem. To my friends and family out of state- please come visit. Come spend a weekend and explore the beauty with me. To my friends and family in state- get lost. Start driving or walking or hiking and get lost in the most beautiful, unique, and special state. There truly is no place like home.

This post was inspired by NBC CT's "#ImSoConnecticut" campaign. I'm so Connecticut because after living away for six years, I couldn't get over how green the grass was back home. #ImSoConnecticut

A few of my own pictures from my Connecticut Summer 2014 adventures. Enjoy!