Missing Orlando Already

Orlando would not have been my first choice of places in the world to have been born, raised and still living here. "Fun" tourist things cost money, we have only one season (summer), beaches are still a drive away, all my family (except dad, step-dad and sister) live up in the Northeast, the list goes on...

Yet, this is where my heart is, I truly love Orlando, I'm comfortable here, I know every part of the city (from Windermere to Oviedo to Kissimmee), I have made some of the greatest friendships, I love my church and the community God has given me here.

I thought a lot about this, this past weekend, spending time with good friends I have made over the years, and doing random things around Orlando (that the tourists don't know about). I was able to spend time with some friends on the Butler Chain of Lakes, going wake boarding and cruising around the lakes that seem to connect throughout southwest Orlando. It was nice to enjoy Orlando for its natural beauty, old trees and beautiful sunsets.

While many may look at "The City Beautiful" and think that should have never been our cities slogan...I think what makes the city live up to this saying are the friendships, family and friends that you can find in the heart of the city.