A unique thing about the Midwest is without competition, the people. Sure, the weather is refreshing, and the harvest is good, but the characters of Kansas are irreplaceable. Every one waves as they pass on the street. We wave twice on a dirt road, because you never know if the next time you see Farmer Joe, you'll be needing him to use that tractor to pull your car out of a cold ditch.

Back in my home town I have countless Grandfathers. The elderly men drink coffee in the convenience store booth and exchange tales of crazy wives and agricultural tips. Their voices captivate and their caring eyes are quick to invoke a smile when you make conversation in passing. Those crazy wives make the best cinnamon apple pie.

Every one seems to watch out for one another. We are all low-key, laid back, and nosy. Gossip is unavoidable; what else is there to do? We're all one big family-and contrary to popular belief-i mean this figuratively.

I can't write words of Kansas without mentioning the magic of sunset. I wish i could paint the saucy colors and the way they contrast with the deep green of the fields of corn. There is a complete stillness to this event. Even the buzz of the locust seems to turn into a hush as the hues spread their warmth throughout the sky. You can see it for miles. No city lights disrupt the view. At this time I like to sit on the front porch swing (a must-have if you live in the Midwest) and relish in this showcase of nature's indisputable beauty.

A campfire is another signature of Kansas. After all, that's how you know where the party is. There is nothing like the twisting light of a fire. A talented soul with a guitar can usually be found lounging nearby, strumming a Lynard Skynard tune, or maybe even some Johnny Cash. And at this point, nothing matters. The world turns, the earth is a moving and breathing thing-and although perilous, in the calm of a night like this, it simply Is.

Kansas is a flannel shirt. It is sweet corn, fresh cantaloupe, and dandelions. It is cold beer, smiling faces, and old-fashioned. Need a vacation? Reserve a spot at a quiet Bed and Breakfast and bring a fishing pole.

Learn more about this author, Jessica Senn.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Testimonies: Why I love the Midwest?
We want to hear your view. Write now!