For the last several years, I worked in Grand Rapids, driving over a hundred miles one way everyday. When establishing rapport with my customers, eventually the subject of my long commute would come up, and they would invariably ask, "Oh my! Why do you drive so far? You should move down here."
In truth, I have considered it over the years. But every time I drop my kids off at school, and I recognize nearly every parent and teacher, I realize: THIS IS HOME!
Sure, Grand Rapids is a bustling hub of activity, and the fastest growing city in Michigan. Make no mistake, I love Grand Rapids, too. I will always feel a connection to the big city, and my taste for excitement will always take me back. Grand Rapids has a feel like no other city I have been too, and I have been to a lot of cities.
But when it comes to truly enjoying family life, Hart is where my heart is. The small town community provides a feeling of safety and security. I love going into the grocery store and being welcomed by name. It's amazing that I haven't been in an auto accident yet, because I can hardly pass a car without having to give or return a friendly wave to a local friend or neighbor.
Sure, some of my city friends complain because I live out in "The Sticks", but when they want to go fishing, hunting, or camping, guess who they call? That's right, ME! We have everything here. There's fishing on Hart Lake, camping out at Silver Lake State Park, and whitetail deer galore.
I've spent so much time working outside of town, that I was starting to lose that connection with the town itself. Now that I am back to working locally, I am excited that I will be around to partake in all the classic events. I'll be here for the pancake breakfasts at the VFW. I'll be dragged by my kids to ride the rides and see the animals at the county fair. I'll even throw on my dress blues and march in the Parades if they want me to!
If you've never visited Hart before, I suggest you plan on doing so soon. Why not this summer? The dunes open next month, so you'd better start planning your trip now, and give me a call if you need a tip on a goof place to eat or a good place to stay. If you're a local already, I'll see you around town!
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