Becoming A. Ward: Missing MI

I think about home all the time. It's only natural that one would miss their stomping grounds. For people like Nate and I who have been living in different cities for almost 5 years now, Nate living away from home since he was a teenager, I'd like to say you get used to being away, but the truth is, I've never really gotten used to it. Having an amazing support group of friends and family here in Edmonton really helps, but its still stings a little when I think about Michigan and how desperately I wish our hometowns were closer. I am pretty fortunate to have a great childhood friend only a few hours away from me, she moved to Calgary around the same time I moved to Edmonton, and although I have only been down to see her once since the move, there is something very comforting knowing there is a little piece of home so close.

I realize this may sound a little selfish and that I should be re-evaluating my idea of "home", after all home is where the heart is, and there is no question that my heart is with Nate. But I know he understands me when I say "I miss home", he gets it, he can relate and I really appreciate him for that. Instead of taking it the wrong way and turning it into something its not, he comforts me and makes everything better. Just one of the many reasons why I love him.

There's just something magnetic about Michigan. There must be something in the Great Lakes water that keeps me coming back. If you call Michigan home, then you understand what I mean. The beautiful beaches, the very distinct, very gorgeous four seasons, the never-ending trees, bonfires in July, the mosquitoes...wait, don't know where that came from. Well, you get the idea. And the great news is, I'm Michigan bound on June 29. I can't wait to get back there and soak up some Lake Superior. I've put together a small homage to the Great Lakes state from my memory bank, enjoy!