Florida

The first place that popped into my head that makes me feel content is Daytona Beach, FL. I've been visiting it since I was five years old. My parents and I rent a condo at a resort that leads right to the beach. We visited every year for vacation, so naturally I associate it with summer, relaxation and spending time with family.

The heat of Florida is so familiar and striking that it feels so nice to go swimming in the pool or to visit the beach. It is so refreshing to go in the cool water to escape the heat. Or going down to the beach where the waves beckon the people to swim in the ocean. The salty air wafts around as people splash around in the waves. I think one of my favorite things to do while there is watch the sunset. They are so beautiful, with assortments of pink, orange and purple as the sun sets over the ocean. In addition, the waves make a wooshing sound as they retreat which is so calming. In addition, the feel of the sand under my feet as it soothes them and gets in my shoes truly reminds me of summer and helps wipe away any of my stress from the school year.

Florida is also one of my favorite places because we visit my dad's friend from college and his family. They have kids around my age and we have so much fun hanging out. When were little, we would put on these shows where we danced and sang along to music which was so fun. They also live 15 minutes from Universal and Disney, so we always go to the parks and go on all the roller coasters and water rides. Two years ago we went to Harry Potter world and it was so cool. The simulation ride that is in the castle was so creative, and I loved the frozen butter beer. Since I've been there, they have added more things such as the Hogwarts express and some shops. I'd really like to go back. Anyway, getting off track. Um, oh my dad's alma mater is in Florida, Stetson University. I love visiting it there because I love the palm trees and brick buildings. I also love hearing my dad's college stories- they're pretty interesting. I love watching him reflect back on college and commenting on how the campus has changed because one day hopefully I'll be reflecting back on college with fond memories.

Another thing that is so familiar is the smell of the condo and the lobby of the hotel. Strange, but every time I go there it's always the same. It's a mixture of salt and sweet fragrance that smells amazing.

I feel like when you get older, you begin to appreciate the memories from your childhood more(Sounds like a theme...). But it's true. I started missing my childhood when I brought my AP US textbook to the beach to do AP summer work. It was so sad, and I miss the days when I was more worried about going to the beach than getting AP summer work done. Needless to say, I ditched the book the moment I walked down to the beach. Priorities :)

Lastly, Daytona is a wonderful place that I love dearly, and will continue to visit. However, this summer we won't be going down to Florida but up to New England. Although I'll miss it, hopefully I'll visit again soon.