Home – It really is where the heart is!

Growing up as a military child, “home” has been a variety of places.  People would ask me where I was from and I never really knew quite how to answer.  I would always have to ask, “Do you mean, where do I live now?  Where was I born?  Or where have I lived the longest?”  I was born in Chicago and technically, I have only lived in the Chicago area for 6 of my almost 34 years.  I’ve also lived in the Philippines, Bermuda, and several places in Maryland.  Technically, most of my life has been spent in Maryland.  But, having been back to Chicago twice now over the past 2 weeks, I have to admit that there is nowhere else that feels quite as much like home. 

When I get off the plane in Chicago, I feel like I’m home.  There’s a feeling that comes over me that just makes me feel like I’m back where I belong.  I like the fact that I see other people sporting Bears attire.  I like the way that people refer to Coke, Pepsi, etc as “pop”.  I like the fact that I easily revert back to calling it “pop” and that saying “soda” again when I get back to Maryland seems weird.  I like the hot dogs, the pizza, even the cold wintry weather.  But most of all, I like the people.  I like the fact that the people are “real”.  I like the fact that they have values and are genuinely warm and friendly.  I like knowing that when I talk to them, what I see/hear is what I get. 

After almost 34 years, I’ve realized that I am truly a midwest girl at heart.  I know where my home is.  My home is where my heart is – sweet home Chicago.  And someday, I hope to be back – for good!