Thought about moving back home?

Many people who aren’t from this area will be traveling this time of the year to their home town to get together with friends and family. They are happy to return to to the place where they grew up, looking forward to seeing loved ones, sharing memories and making new ones. Nevertheless, they would never consider moving back to their home town. If you’re not from Hampton Roads this raises the question: Have you ever thought about moving back home?

For some, their jobs made it necessary to move away from home.  Hampton Roads has the largest Navy Base and many other military bases surrounding the area. Due to a strong military presence, many people have relocated to and from here from all over the world.

Going to college can create an opportunity to move away, and their new location can end up being the place where they find a job, get married and begin a family. Making oneself available to care for aging parents or a sick child can necessitate the need to move to a new town. For others, they have moved away from home to create a better life for themselves.

What’s it Like returning home after being away for years?

There can be a feeling of disconnect when seeing old friends. Instead of having what you thought would be an instant reunion, your friends may stare at you as if you were a stranger. Life has taken each of you in different direction with unique experiences. It may take some time to get reacquainted with old friends – maybe even loved ones you haven’t seen in years. You may feel like an outsider for a while. Give yourself and your friends time to catch up to rediscover one another, as well as explore how life experiences have shaped you into the people you are today.

nostalgic moments due to change

Certain landmarks, faces, restaurants, streets and aromas may give brief moments of nostalgia. Neighborhoods can evolve over time. You many find yourself amazed at how things have changed where you used to live. In some areas it may not resemble what you recall. That may make you feel a bit unsettled. Longing for what was due to memories of times past may create challenge in adjusting. Having a balanced view of what to expect when returning to your home town may make it easier to adapt to your surroundings.

surprised That Certain Things Are Still There

Catching a glimpse while driving by of the high school where you attended or a favorite park where you used to play as a youth reassures you that while some things change, some things stay the same. When you see a familiar landmark or popular restaurant where you had great times, it can bring a sense of nostalgic joy and make you feel right at home.

When I visit New York, my home town, I feel all of the emotions described above. Seeing how the neighborhood I grew up in has changed can feel a bit sentimental, but I’m happy that the previously abandoned buildings are now occupied and local business are flourishing. At times I miss my friends, but I’ve tried to stay in touch through the years.  I enjoy living in Hampton Roads, made new friendships, as well as enjoyed cherished moments.

How about you? Have you ever thought about moving back home? Share your thoughts below.