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Growing pains

Growing up in Ogden was amazing. I’ve lived here most of my life, and I will always have a soft spot for downtown Ogden. This town has many different shops, beautiful art and amazing local food. Once a week, my family and I would travel down to eat at a local shop while admiring the bright lights Ogden offers.

One of the oldest buildings in Ogden, the Beehive Confectionery, is a highlight of the downtown view. (Camryn Johnson/ The Signpost)
One of the oldest buildings in Ogden, the Beehive Confectionery, is a highlight of the downtown view. Photo credit: Camryn Johnson

When I was 18, I chose to move away from Ogden and travel to a small town in Alaska. This small town, called Seward, was my home for many months.

At first, I was very homesick. I didn’t know if I could fit in, feel at home or even gain a sense of familiarity. I felt alone. After I got settled, I started exploring the beautiful town. While the atmosphere was cold, it was very similar to Ogden. Starting my journey at the ocean made me realize I wasn’t home anymore.

Cache Valley bank overlooks the beautiful view of the mountains. (Camryn Johnson/ The Singpost)
Cache Valley Bank overlooks the beautiful view of the mountains. Photo credit: Camryn Johnson

As I continued down the empty streets — the population is only 2,773 people and is two hours away from any other town — I at first felt isolated. Making my journey down, I finally made it to the main part of town, where locals spend most of their time.

Roosters is a popular restaurant on 25th Street. (Camryn Johnson/ The Signpost)
Roosters is a popular restaurant on 25th Street. Photo credit: Camryn Johnson

I couldn’t believe how similar it was to Ogden. The small shops, the mountains and amazing food made me feel like I was home. Creating a special bond to these two places made me appreciate how we can take these things for granted. Creating a close-knit community in both towns felt like I never left home.

Pig & a Jelly Jar is a hot spot to eat next to the Historic 25th Street hotel. (Camryn Johnson/ The Signpost)
Pig & a Jelly Jar is a hot spot to eat next to the Historic 25th Street hotel. Photo credit: Camryn Johnson

Leaving Seward was hard but necessary for me to begin my college career. When I arrived home, my first stop was to downtown Ogden. Feeling the same emotions and atmosphere, I realized I never left home. I was right where I belonged.

Historic 25th Street is the heart of downtown Ogden. (Camryn Johnson/ The Signpost)
Historic 25th Street is the heart of downtown Ogden. Photo credit: Camryn Johnson
Roosters is a popular restaurant on 25th Street. (Camryn Johnson/ The Signpost)
Roosters is a popular restaurant on 25th Street. Photo credit: Camryn Johnson

Tona is a fun place to eat downtown that has been around for many years. (Camryn Johnson, The Signpost)
Tona is a fun place to eat downtown that has been around for many years. Photo credit: Camryn Johnson
An "I love Ogden" sign is displayed outside of some shops in downtown Ogden. (Camryn Johnson/ The Signpost)
An "I love Ogden" sign is displayed outside of some shops in downtown Ogden. Photo credit: Camryn Johnson
One of the most popular spots in downtown Ogden is the Wiseguys comedy club. (Camryn Johnson/ The Signpost)
One of the most popular spots in downtown Ogden is the Wiseguys comedy club. Photo credit: Camryn Johnson

Signs and buildings of local shops in front of the Utah mountains. (Camryn Johnson/ The Signpost)
Signs and buildings of local shops in front of the Utah mountains. Photo credit: Camryn Johnson
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