Refineries at Night

I realized somethings tonight on my way home. Matt and I have often discussed the area we live in. I don't know if everyone discusses their home town this much or if it's just us, but it comes up a lot when we talk. We can both agree and strongly disagree on this subject. For example, we both agree the 4 acres we live on is the most beautiful in the area. We constantly disagree as to whether or not southeast Texas is, indeed, the armpit of Texas. Keep in mind, that Matt has a job that constantly forces him to look at the bad side of Beaumont. So here's somethings I love about my home town area that others may not appreciate.

1. Refineries at Night - I am very aware of the pollution these things cause, and during the day, they're just giant hunks of metal. I am aware that I live on what is called the cancer coast of America. But refineries are really pretty at night. When I was little, I used to see them as little cities. I would imagine that they looked like the New York skyline in the distance.

2. Flat Land - Hills are pretty, but plains are practical. You can grow things on them and your calf muscles aren't killing you after you push your groceries up hill to your parking space. I like being able to look in all directions for miles. And if you squint, a tree line can look like a mountain range.

3. The Rain - I like it when it rains. I DON'T like it when I have to drive in the rain. Rain, to me, is very calming, and the bigger the storm (excepting hurricanes) the better. I slept through Humberto, which was a Category 1 turn tropical storm that blew through a few years ago. If the electricity hadn't gone out, I would have done the same with Ike. The wind, rain, and thunder help me sleep.

4. The Heat - Don't get me wrong, I like snow and cold weather too (maybe occassionally is a better word). But I like basking in the sun. It gets rid of headaches and beats never being able to warm up.

5. The Greenery - We live in a sub-tropic zone, I think....from what I remember of geography. This makes everything really green. And I like it. Some people may like the brown/gray view of the mountains. I like a nice green lawn that nobody had to water. The Big Thicket rocks.

So, I will keep you updated on whether Matt and I decide to permanently reside in Texas or pick a different area. But I will always be able to see a few positives to living here.