Some may wonder why we choose to live where we do--it requires at least three layovers to get here no matter where your flight originates and, once you're here, three layers of fleece to stay dry. Allow me, then, to revel in this weekend's celebration of all things wonderful about my hometown and share with you my own personal Top 10 Reasons I Love It Here:
#10 The food stores. Locally grown, organic offerings of the earth. Ok, mom made me start with this one. Don't get me wrong, I love me my hippie markets, but it's the chocolate milk treat that I get that endears me to them.
#9. We have a Slug Queen. If you don't believe me, you were not at the parade this morning. Better yet, we have a Congressman who appears in this parade every year directly behind the newly inaugurated Slug Queen so that he may pick up her Slug Poo... or maybe her slime? Regardless, this guy gets my vote.
#8. School buses are just plain more fun here than anywhere else I've ever seen. 
#7. I suspect that The Department Of Peace, should it ever become a recognized entity at a national level, will be largely staffed by my neighbors. Power to the Peaceful. If you peaceniks are feeling disenfranchised elsewhere, I invite you here. We'll give you a flag and a space in next year's parade.
#6. EVERYONE here is really funny. Everyone.
#5. But, when it comes to important issues such as health care reform, we don't mess around. We are dead serious about it.
#4. Nearby woodland creatures occasionally bike into town to say hi.
#3.Being a fairly beatnik community, no one begrudges an artist her diligent attention to her craft.
#2. The golf courses are world renown. (As are my grip and form).
And the Number One Reason I Love It Here:
You can do this. In public.
I wrapped up today's love fest with our city with a little celebratory dance. 
