when i made the decision to move to Roanoke i was taking a huge leap of faith. i was leaving a career that just didn't make me as happy as i could be, therefor i decide that i needed to start the next chapter of my life in a cozy little Southern town in VA. I swore up and down that i would never live in VA after my tumultuous relationship with Nofolk and a new found hate for vanity license plates but, sure enough - almost 3 years later i called Roanoke, VA home. The star city.
This place was good to joe. it was also good to my visits here when i lived 4 hours towards the eastern shore and then 4 states south in sunny, humid florida. This place felt like "home" when i would visit. the downtown was alive but still had that southern flair, there was plenty of great restaurants to try out some delicious eats and there was always great conversation everywhere we turned. i really loved the town that joe called home. i remember being jealous about the events he would attend like First Fridays, Microfestivus, St. Pats and whatever else was happening downtown. i knew that when i decided that Roanoke was going to be a new home of mine too, it would be a perfect fit.
turns out, it was. well... for another three days, it still is but i'm in a "was" kinda mindset starting this week. i remember sitting at joe's "going away party" and listening to him thank his staff for making this place a home. he mentioned that the staff became a family to him and that roanoke would always hold a special place in his heart. tonight, i couldn't agree with him more. this place is pretty "b.a" as some would say. (hint:badass) and hell, they couldn't be more right! my family knew i'd love it and joe said it would be hard to leave. they were both right and well, i miss everything it is already.
when i take a little time to appreciate this place, my heart is light. i think that i have a new little love affair with a new little city and everything it has to offer. from the company i kept and the relationships i'll take with me forever, the downtown outside lunch spots, my favorite dive bar, the music and entertainment scene, the coffee shops, shopping spots and of course some of the best views i've ever laid eyes on. i've learned and experienced a lot in roanoke and needless to say, i'm gonna miss this little star city.
roanoke got into my bones. it shook me. no doubt about it. so roanoke, don't forget to be awesome. i can't wait to be back.
Glad to see that you are posting again Sara - safe travels "Oh the Places You Go!" - wherever you go
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