So I'm just going to come out right now and say it: I'm from Tucson. Alright, now you can wipe the look of disgust off of your face and send back the invitations to the pity party, because it just so happens I like Tucson. Don't worry I'm all in favor of ASU in the UA / ASU rivalry (unless it's basketball season) and I'm in no way offended by the snide comparison of Tucson roads with Tijuana roads, they are bad. But in no way can there be a rivalry between Tucson and Phoenix, they're too different. Of course Tucson could be Phoenix if they wanted to, but Tucsonans choose to remain the figurative midpoint between Phoenix and Flagstaff.
So here's where you're going to say, "If it's so great, why don't you live there?" All I have to say is touché my friend. I don't live there because I go to ASU, for the millionth time no, I didn't choose to go to UA. But like they say, there's no place like home, and no feeling like nostalgia. Sure there was a little boredom mixed in with a little misery when I received what seemed like a thousand text messaged invitations from friends in Tempe which I had to decline, but I'm sure all of you out-of-state kids can empathize.
While I was driving down the Tijuana-like roads, I noticed something peculiar, something that sets Tucson apart from Tempe. No longer was I surrounded by handfuls of nice shiny cars, but quite dirty cars actually. And at an outside event downtown, I saw no one wearing heels or oversized designer sunglasses. As you can imagine this had a similar effect on me as the Lolli Pop Kids had on Dorothy. I certainly was not in Kansas anymore.
Not only did I not have to be self-conscious of my side view mirror hanging off while stopped next to a sparkling new Audi, I didn't have to worry about what my next meal was going to be and if I'd have to cook it or buy it. And having someone else do my laundry and fold it, I was in heaven. Especially after a stressful week of midterms, who doesn't need a load off their shoulders thanks to Mom?
With Thanksgiving break creeping up, you'll all be able to share in the joys of returning home. Dad taking you on tours to show off the new additions he's planted around the house, old pets actually remembering who you are despite their ridiculously ancient age, the crazy cousin calling you as soon as you pull into town, (it's like they have a radar I swear). But there's nothing more relaxing than high school friends, old traditions, and old boyfriends, let me tell you. I bet ya'll can't wait!
If Thanksgiving break isn't soon enough and Tempe life is getting too fast paced for you, you can borrow my hometown for a day, seriously, stop making that face. Just drive an hour and a half south, have some Mexican hotdogs at BK's or some Eegee's, a couple of Tucson's specialties. Trust me, you'll thank me later.
Reach the reporter at: adprice4@asu.edu.
