Growing up in a quaint town in Maine with a population below 3,000 was a unique experience for me. My childhood was spent surrounded by nature, often with our nearest neighbor over a half-mile away. I vividly recall the freedom of biking barefoot to her house without a helmet, all while never encountering a single car on those journeys.
Venturing to our sole local store was always an adventure. Nestled in the heart of town, it was accessible only by crossing one blinking red stoplight, where you were greeted by name. My siblings and I often spent countless hours in the woods, picking berries and constructing forts. There were moments when boredom struck, leading us to fantasize about bustling city life, filled with movie theaters and crowded streets. Yet, I cherished my upbringing, finding beauty in the slow, serene lifestyle that small-town living offered. So much so, that I chose to attend college in another small town rather than a big city.
While I appreciate urban life, I genuinely enjoy raising my children in the same environment that shaped me. In fact, we built our home just a few miles from my childhood house, and the familiar stoplight and store remain the center of town, unchanged for over three decades.
Some might argue that small-town life lacks excitement, but I find it peaceful. The constant noise of traffic and crowded neighborhoods can be overwhelming. To me, a small town is the ideal blend of tranquility and accessibility; we have stunning tree views and the soothing sounds of birds while being just ten minutes away from a larger town.
And honestly, who needs pizza delivery when you can enjoy the sight of cows or turkeys leisurely crossing the road? The cost of living is significantly lower than in metropolitan areas. Sure, there may be extra gas expenses for trips to get essentials, but it pales in comparison to what we would spend on daycare, taxes, and housing in a city.
Our homes are spaced out, providing privacy and open areas. You can even relish the freedom of walking around in your own skin if you choose. I find comfort in knowing that when my kids play baseball or golf, there’s little risk of breaking anyone else’s windows—only ours!
The small schools in our town are advantageous for my children. With fewer students, they receive more personalized attention, and I can easily connect with teachers, whether at school or while shopping at the local market. The lack of bright street lights and towering buildings means that the night sky is breathtakingly clear. I love stepping outside to gaze at the stars, especially when fireflies dance around, creating a magical atmosphere.
My children often engage in imaginative play, as they don’t always have friends available in the neighborhood. They’ve learned to be resourceful and creative outdoors, crafting beautiful memories just like I did as a child. The sense of community here is strong; everyone knows me and my kids, just as I recognize which children belong to their parents. We’re quick to communicate when needed, reminding our kids that even if we can’t see them, the entire community is watching out for them.
Occasionally, we venture to a nearby city to explore new foods and meet diverse people. In those moments, I sometimes ponder the idea of leaving our small town. However, returning home to see my kids joyfully riding their bikes, or having a neighbor stop by for a cup of sugar, quickly reminds me that I will always have a special place in my heart for small-town life. My children can choose to move to the city when they grow up, but this will always be our home.
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Summary
Growing up in a small town has shaped my life and parenting style. The tranquility, community spirit, and close connections foster a nurturing environment for my children. While city life offers its own excitement, the simplicity and beauty of small-town living remain deeply rooted in my heart.