If you had asked me, “What’s different about Geauga County?” 20 years ago, or even 10 years ago, I don’t think I would have had a good answer for you. When we are younger, it’s easy to overlook the unique aspects of our surroundings because we lack the exposure to make any realistic comparisons.
You know when you first went to Dairy Queen and had an ice cream cone? It was delicious, cold, sweet, and just what you needed on that hot day in the summer of your childhood. Now, I’m not ever going to say that Dairy Queen doesn’t hit the spot, but step back for a minute and compare Dairy Queen’s ice cream to Joel’s ice cream in Burton (I still miss that place). There is no comparison to homemade ice cream, but you don’t realize that until you’ve had a little more exposure.
A few years a back, I had the pleasure of moving to Akron and then Chicago for work, and I was exposed to a much larger sampling of people over the course of 4-5 years. When I found out that my wife and I were expecting our son, I just inherently knew that I needed to move back to Geauga County, the place of my childhood. I didn’t realize it at the time, but now I understand that Geauga County is magical, and here’s why:
1. It’s full of good people
A couple months back while I was out to dinner, I ran into a guy named Brian that used to work for me years ago when I had my construction company. At first he didn’t recognize me, but when he did, he still couldn’t place my name, so I reluctantly told him, “I’m Gabe. I’m the guy that stiffed you for that money years ago. You probably don’t want to remember that.” I have to say that his response is something that will always help me remember how good the people here are. He said, “That’s ok, man. Sometimes bad things happen in business. It’s ok.”
Out of the blue, I had received forgiveness which I definitely didn’t deserve. It was one of the many bright spots that I’ve experienced here since moving home. Brian is someone who embodies the good will of the people of Geauga County. He’s a part of the magic here.
I’d have to say that I have met many people that are willing to help their neighbor out. Somehow, despite the advances of technology and the strains of just trying to make it through life, people out here have managed to maintain a sense of community and have learned to show compassion to their fellow man. I love that about Geauga County.
2. You can’t beat the scenery
I have been very fortunate to travel a good part of the United States so far in my life, and I have to say that there are not a lot of places that compare to our county. With all the beautiful Geauga Parks, we are so fortunate to be able to experience the beauties of nature everyday.
When I lived in Chicago, I used to walk to work every day and really appreciated my surroundings and the city as it woke up. Here, I have really come to treasure my morning drive down Burton-Windsor Road to 608 where I can see the sun burning off the morning mist as it elevates over the farmland and begins to beam down upon me. The rolling hills, the rhythmic clip clopping of the horses’ hooves, and the birds singing every day are like a chorus of joy every time I hear them. I truly appreciate the opportunity that I have to live in such a peaceful and beautiful part of the country. It still takes my breath away every morning.
3. It’s full of self starters
I thought about saying “Geauga County is full of dreamers,” but then I remembered going to Santa Monica beach and seeing “dreamers.” Those people think they are going to be the next Kim Kardashian or Ashton Kutcher, and yes, most of them are dreaming. It will never happen for them.
Around here we have self starters. People who see a need, and step up to handle it. People who envision a profitable business that will create jobs, and then execute it and create those jobs. We are more than dreamers. We are doers. We are practical people who get the job done. It’s a no nonsense crowd around here, and I like that.
Moving back to Geauga County was a tough choice at first. I love the city, but once I got over the idea of having to change locations, I have to say that I have become more and more pleased with my choice. This place is magic, and I’m so glad that I get to raise my son here and share with him all the wonderful people and places that make up my county.
What do you love about Geauga County?
What makes it magical for you?
Share your thoughts in the comments below.
