Coming Home to Lander, WY
There is nothing like the feeling of coming home.
It is an energy that I step into every time I go to Wyoming.
I put on a little John Denver and the comfort sets in.
I feel at peace and so grounded.
It feels like an energizing inhale and calming exhale.
Even though I haven’t been to my hometown in Lander, WY for many years, it always feels like home.
Family, friends, old haunts, local businesses that still remain, the smell of the sage in the rain, the landscape, the sound of the river and nature.
Going there with my sister brought even more joy as the family and childhood memories kept popping up.
So much has changed yet so much is still the same.
People wave when they drive by.
They don’t hesitate to say hello and are helpful.
Smiles abound.
Friends drop in at spur of the moment and are offered a meal.
Traditional values and wholesome living are the fabric of the town.
There is respect for the native culture as well as for our natural resources.
Change is challenging but the new generation is opening eyes and doors.
I see now where my sense of adventure was born.
The Wind River Mountains were my backyard and they were my playground.
I was always encouraged to be brave and to try new and difficult things.
Jumping over rocks, climbing mountains, catching crawdads and crossing rivers was a common occurrence.
Next to Jody, Lisa, Katie and Kathy, my purple schwinn bicycle was my best friend.
We ran amok in the neighborhood. Safely.
Everyone knew everyone’s business and looked out for one another.
I was reminded of this when Mark Calhoun who lived across the street of my airbnb, welcomed me to the neighborhood (via FB) before we even saw each other. Word travels fast!
Family Friends (The Campbells and Gilbertsons) don’t bat an eye at our last minute visits. There is always room for another chair around the table!
Even though at 18 years old I could hardly wait to leave Lander, these days I can’t wait to return!
Where I grew up will always be home.
Adventure In,
Amy
