Going back to your roots, especially when you come from a small town, can be a surprisingly eye-opening experience. This is particularly true when you take the time to explore things you didn't notice before.
As a teenager, all I wanted was to get out and see the world. The small town In France I grew up in felt suffocating, and the allure of city life was impossible to resist. But now, with a bit more maturity and perspective, everything looks different.
The small town that once felt so confining now seems charming and peaceful. I’ve come to appreciate the quiet streets and the slower pace of life, finding a new kind of beauty in the places I once took for granted. It's amazing how the same streets and buildings can evoke such different feelings after years away.
On my recent visits back home, I've discovered hidden gems that were always there but somehow invisible in my rush to leave. The cozy café on the corner, the serene park trails, and even the old library hold a special charm that I never noticed before. These places, now seen through a different lens, reveal their unique stories and beauty.
The laid-back lifestyle of my hometown, once so frustrating, now feels like a stress-free retreat from the chaos of everyday life. Familiar faces and places bring a warm sense of nostalgia and belonging, a comforting reminder of where I come from. It’s in these moments that I realize how much I’ve missed the simplicity and warmth of small-town life.
Sometimes, it takes a little time and distance to appreciate what is always right in front of you. Capturing these moments through my lens allows me to see my hometown in a new light. Photography has become my way of preserving these newfound appreciations, turning overlooked corners into cherished memories.
I encourage everyone to take the time to go back and enjoy their roots. Whether it’s a visit to your hometown or just a walk down memory lane, you might be surprised at the beauty and tranquility you find. Embrace the slower pace, reconnect with familiar faces, and let yourself rediscover the hidden gems that have always been there, waiting to be appreciated.
Talk Soon,
Florence