I spent my childhood in a quaint little town in Maine, home to fewer than 3,000 residents. The woods were my playground, and I recall biking barefoot to visit my nearest neighbor, who lived over half a mile away, with nary a car in sight during those carefree days.
Venturing to our town’s only store was a thrilling outing. Situated at the heart of our community, it required passing through a solitary blinking red light. The owners knew us by name, which made every visit feel special. My sisters and I would spend countless hours in the forest, foraging for berries and constructing forts. Occasionally, we’d grumble about boredom and fantasize about city life, where we imagined strolling to theaters or swimming pools, surrounded by a sea of unfamiliar faces.
Despite those fleeting thoughts, I thoroughly cherished my upbringing. The unhurried, tranquil lifestyle of our small town resonated deeply with me. So much so, that instead of chasing the urban dreams of my peers, I chose to attend college in another small town.
Though I appreciate the vibrancy of larger cities, I find immense joy in raising my children in the same peaceful environment where I spent my formative years. In fact, we built our home just a few miles from my childhood residence, and remarkably, the same stoplight and store remain the heartbeat of our town—unchanged for over three decades.
Some might argue that small-town living lacks excitement, but for me, it brings a sense of calm. I could never adapt to the constant noise of traffic or the proximity of neighbors. Here, we enjoy the best of both worlds: serene views of trees and the delightful sounds of birds chirping each morning, while a bigger town is only a short drive away—less than ten minutes, in fact.
Sure, we might miss out on pizza or Chinese food delivery, but who cares? The only traffic we encounter might involve waiting for a few cows or a family of turkeys to cross the road. Plus, living costs are significantly lower than in larger cities. While there’s more gas money involved for errands, it pales in comparison to what we would pay for childcare, taxes, and housing in a bustling metropolis.
Our homes are more spaciously arranged, ensuring a level of privacy that allows for a relaxed lifestyle. I can even walk around in my own yard without a stitch of clothing, if I so choose! And when my kids play catch or hit golf balls, I have peace of mind knowing that no one else’s windows will be in danger of shattering—only ours!
The small schools in our area have been a boon for my children. They thrive in smaller classrooms, and I can easily connect with their teachers, whether at school or during a chance encounter at the grocery store. The lack of city lights allows for breathtaking starry nights, and when fireflies dance around our yard, it feels like a magical light show.
My children have learned to entertain themselves, often playing with friends on our street, even if they’re not always available. This has fostered their creativity and outdoor play, creating cherished memories reminiscent of my own childhood.
In our tight-knit community, everyone knows each other, and I’m well aware of which kids belong to which parents. We look out for one another, readily sharing insights about our kids’ behavior. I often remind my own children that even if I can’t see them at all times, our neighbors surely will and will fill me in—often with a delightful level of detail!
Occasionally, we venture into a nearby city for a change of scenery, enjoying street dancing, sampling diverse cuisine, and meeting new people. In those moments, I wonder if I could ever leave my small town. However, once we return and my kids hop on their bikes, or I spot a deer grazing in our backyard, it becomes clear: I am, and always will be, a small-town girl.
When the time comes for my children to choose, they can move to the city if they desire, but this cozy town will always be their home.
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In summary, raising kids in a small town offers an enriching experience filled with community, safety, and a slower pace of life that allows for creativity and growth.