Does Where You Live Define You?

I grew up on Long Island, NY in a middle-class family in a house with four other siblings. Since then, I have moved numerous times to all kinds of dwellings. Some of them included a 5^th floor walkup on one of NYC’s busiest streets, where my communications agency was first formed; a Sears catalogue “kit” home in the country surrounded by countless trees and a lake; and a loft that has since turned into a famous dessert shop.

To me there were always many factors to consider that would contribute to making a residence a home. When I think of a home, I’m looking for a place that gives me comfy spots to cozy up with a book, an oven to bake my favorite bran muffins, sunlight that pours in the window, and a place to hang my kids’ artwork. But I’m also thinking about neighbors, community, services, amenities, proximity to quality medical care and ways to stay connected and social.  All of the above have always been important factors with each move I’ve made.

While I can’t say for certain when I might move again, or where that might be, I know that my future home will be close to friends and family. It must have space for my body to keep moving and a quiet place to meditate. Most importantly, I want to be able to see smiling faces every day that form the foundation for new friendships and experiences. I’ll always want to live where I can be inspired by people from all walks of life.

As Dorothy famously said, “there’s no place like home.” And while some might relate to that quote literally, I also relate to that quote figuratively. To me, there’s nothing like feeling secure, comfortable and happy – no matter where I am.

What defines a home for you?