I was born in 1974 at Sister's of Charity Hospital in Buffalo, New York. When I was only 4 years old, I started my education at St. John the Baptist Elementary School in Alden, NY. Next I went to Alden Central High, and I also attended the Erie 1 Boces Harkness program for nursing. I graduated from high school in the summer of 1992, and by May of 1993 I had earned my degree as a Liscensed Practical Nurse. I was only 19 years old!
Even though Alden is a nice quiet town, it was all that I knew. I wanted to get away and live a life of "fun in the sun." I set my heart on Florida and saved every dime I made. Within a year I had enough money to leave. I packed up my junky little car and started driving south.
Life in Florida started out pretty rocky. I was 20 years old and already had a 4 year old daughter. There were a lot of times I wanted to just forget my dreams of the "Sunshine State" and go back home to Alden. Somewhere within me I found the strength to be independent and make a life for myself and my child.
Unfortunately, the longer I stayed in Florida, the harder life became. I had three more children after my daughter, all only a year apart. I had gotten myself into a bad relationship, that I wasted 10 years trying to fix. My family and I moved all over Florida, attempting to start over in a new town. Making real friends wasn't an option since we moved so much. I was lonely, sad, and homesick. I knew it was finally time to come home.
So 5 years ago I reluctantly returned to Alden, "Small Town USA". Ever since I have been back, I am reminded every day of the things in life I value the most. Most importantly is the unconditional love and support that only my family can offer. Of course they love me near or far, but only now have our relationships been able to blossom. We share life experiences, big hugs, and many laughs over weekend and holiday get-to-gethers. I wouldn't trade all of the sunshine in Florida for the love I feel here at home.