It is hard to believe we have lived in Maryland for a little
over a year now. After surviving the humidity of the summer I can now say that
I really do love this state. It has such a nice blend of everything: South
& North, Rural & Urban, Hiking & Water Activities, Ocean & Land
and Culture & History. I have learned a lot about different cultures and
sub-cultures while living here. I have also learned a great deal about myself
and my own perceived notions about other people and cultures. When I first
moved here I was so intimated by all of the different types of people. I was so
afraid I would upset them by something I would say or do. I have since learned
that a smile is always universal and you will almost always get a smile back in return. Compassion and
kindness are such simple things to give, and yet people hold on to them as if
they were of short supply. I believe in trying to be the change in the world.
Opening the door for someone, helping them lift something, letting a car in
traffic, etc: such small things and yet they create such a big ripple. That has
been one of my favorite things about living here, seeing that ripple. My second
favorite thing about living here is all of the hiking. The trails, even through
the summer, remain fairly unused. I love hiking in Colorado but sometimes with
the two dogs we spent more time on the side of the trail letting people pass
then actually hiking. Here in Maryland we can let Bella and Wyatt off the leash
and not worry about running into other people. Bella loves "playing wild
dog" in the woods. She will slip into stealth-mode running through the
trees and bushes looking for squirrels to terrify. Wyatt usually stays on the
trail with us, however he is usually behind us basking in all of the smells. It
is funny the places life takes you. I would have never thought I would fall in
love with Maryland and yet after a year here I can say that it is true;
Maryland is truly a hidden, misunderstood, gem of the United States.
