Christian told me my blog was boring---- so, I have decided to "spice" things up a bit! I'm not exactly sure how I'm going to do that considering my life is a little dull right now--- ya see, it's winter AND it's Rochester. I shouldn't be complaining considering warm weather and the minimal snow we have had so far, BUT EVEN this year I ask myself "Why do I live in Rochester again?".

My answer to myself is the same now as it has been in the past 7yrs; I like it here. Yes, despite the snow--the ice---the lack of jobs---the lack of entertaining things to do "out and about"---despite the fast ferry coming and going without me ever actually RIDING the damn thing---despite the high property taxes and low wages---no public transportation and aweful shopping----despite the gas price gouging and the crime--- I have become a Rochesterian.

I love the wine and the fingerlakes it comes from---I love the fact that if you drive north far enough Lake Ontario opens up into a beautiful beach getaway--- I love that I can go see live music any night of the week--- and that sometimes I dont even have to PAY--- I love that I can meet someone for the first time and have circles of collegues or friends in common--- I love that I can fly to NYC in 40minutes, but its bustle is a world away--- I love that I can see EVERYONE in my immediate family within a brisk walk--- I love that I live in a city where people actually CARE about helping others---I love that I have more close relationships here than I have ever had in my life--- I love that our friends are as close (if not closer) than family--- I love that I never have to pay a specialty co-pay--- I love that I never have to pay to get my car fixed or my hair cut--- I love that we have some of the best elementary, middle, and high schools in NYS within a couple minutes drive--- I love that we have produced world class atheletes, musicians, and intellectuals---- I love it that being a Rochestarian means that I am part of all of these great things. THAT is why I stay--- not for all thats WRONG with it, not because I'm scared to go anywhere else, but because all that is good outweighs all that is bad.

So, is Rochester perfect---- Hell, NO! But it is home---- and hopefully I will call it home for a long time to come!

Sorry this isn't more interesting Chris--- but it's the best I could do in short notice!!!