13 Reasons Why Small Town Maine Is Actually The Best Place To Grow Up

Growing up in small town Maine means close friends and family are always nearby. It's warm lights coming from the homes of neighbors after the sun has gone down on summer nights. It's familiar, it's beautiful and more importantly, it's home. Some people think that growing up in a city means a better life, but we'd argue that we got everything we could have wanted and more growing up in small town Maine. Here are 13 reasons why we'll take small town Maine over the big city any day.

1. Learning to drive was a stress-free activity.

First, let's be honest. If you grew up in one of the more rural areas of small-town Maine, you've probably been operating a vehicle since before the state felt you should have a license. But, when it came time to prepare for the official test you had all the backroads you needed for beautiful, stress-free practice.

2. But, you could walk just about anywhere.

So driving wasn't even a real necessity.

3. Shopping local wasn't a catch-phrase.

It was a just life. Target? Nope. You shopped at the local stores because that's what existed and they had everything you needed. Chances are you knew the owners and grew up with their kids.

4. But when you did head to the mall, it was a pretty big deal.

If you could get someone to drive you, you piled in the car with as many friends that would fit.

5. You grew up with scenery that tourists only dream of.

The beauty of Maine wasn't something you had to search for. It was right outside your door. Growing up in a small town meant access to lakes, trails and forests that felt like all yours.

6. And memories were made in those forests on a daily basis.

Summers were spent running around with forever friends, getting sweaty in the woods. These same friends were in your wedding.

7. Forgetting your house key wasn't a problem.

With a community full of friends, there was no reason to lock the doors.

8. But, if you did get locked out...

...there was always a place for you at the neighbor's dinner table. In fact, unlocked doors meant you walked in, sat down and ended up being fed.

9. You had a community of people who always offered a helping hand.

No matter the weather, neighbors helped neighbors. Small town Maine means all-for-one and that was always evident when you needed someone the most.

10. You learned to appreciate a hard day's work.

And that work ethic has stayed with you all your life.

11. You knew all the cops.

And more than once you had to ask them not to call your parents. You may have even gotten a few rides home from them.

12. You were lucky enough to have a tight-knit community.

And they acted like an extension of your own family. To this day, when you run into someone from your neighborhood it feels like being with a family member.

13. And, best of all, family values were incredibly strong.

Your extended family lived nearby and you wouldn't have had it any other way.

What do you think is the best place to grow up? A big, bustling city or lovely, rural Maine?