JessicaRigby

I’m a bit of a nature freak.  I’m happiest far away from road noise, tucked safely into Mother Earth’s arms.  So it came as no suprise to anyone when, upon arriving in this little town, I went exploring.  I just knew that nestled in this quiet valley, wonderfully inspiring sights awaited me.  Perhaps my favorite thing about this town is how happily alone it is.  For miles in every direction lay farms, nature preserves, and wide open spaces.  All the same, we’re not at all disconnected.  In a way, this town is the happiest medium I could dream to find.  I walk the campus by day, explore by night.  And I must be frank with you, I’m the happiest I’ve been in ages.

But I’m getting ahead of myself.  That’s me, always jumping the gun. 

 It all began one crisp evening in the early fall.  Out for some fun, two friends and I decided to take our sandwiches and have a picnic.  With only a hazy idea for directions, we set out.  What we expected to find was minimal.  On overlook, perhaps a few tables, a bathroom if we were lucky.  I was not at all prepared for what I saw as I drove up over the top of that hill for the first time. 

Suddenly everything fell away.  I wasn’t worried about passing Sociology, missing my ex-boyfriend, or even getting intoxicated that weekend.  The only thing I cared about was the fact that the wind was knocked out of me, and for once in my life I wasn’t desperate to get it back.  From atop a hill, the entire lake was visable.  From three directions, it was spread out before me.  Rolling hills, water rushing past me on the way to the dam.  For miles and miles, the beauty of this land was quietly dazling. 

When Louis and Clark set out to explore the Lousianna Purchase, they had a whole new world of sights, sounds, and smells awaiting them.  Of all the land they roamed, it is said they found Kansas one of the most beautiful.  Sitting at the top of that hill, I suddenly understood what they meant.  I was speechless.  Even today, after exploring that lake and her numerous parks, it’s impossible to grasp the words to describe it.  But if you’re ever lonely…  If you ever forget how magically life is.,,  If you’re ever just sick of this town or looking for something to do… Get your butt out there.  A whole new world of grandur awaits you.