A new homeopolis

Coming from Louisiana, over 1,400 miles southeast of Thermopolis, I had no idea what to expect when I accepted the reporter position at the Independent Record.

Prior to moving here, the furthest north I had been was Denver, Colo. I had never been to Wyoming. The only knowledge I had of Wyoming or Thermopolis was what I found via Google. The images alone made me yearn to live here.

I must admit, the small population of Thermopolis worried me a bit. I had never lived in a town so small. I worried about fitting in. I worried that there would not be much to do. And most of all, I worried that my six-year-old daughter would hate it.

Boy, was I wrong.

My daughter absolutely loves Ralph Witters Elementary and her teacher, Mrs. Cordingly. She has learned more at her new school in one week than she had all year at her prior school in Louisiana. I wish I were exaggerating for Louisiana's education system's sake, but it is absolutely the truth. Not only has she gained more knowledge but her self-confidence has grown exponentially. I'm not sure what they do different in Wyoming, but whatever it is ... they're doing it right.

I also quickly learned that a small town doesn't necessarily mean there is little to do. In fact, there seems to be even more to do here than I ever imagined.

Wind River Canyon makes me feel like I'm in a Bob Ross painting. The Wyoming Dinosaur Center made me realize the true depth and magnitude of life on Earth. The ArtStroll introduced me to artists who create works of art out of bones, animal skins, railroad spikes, tea kettles and knives as well as gave my ear the soothing sounds of folk music by local musicians.

During my first exploration of Wind River Canyon, I saw a sign that read, "Unsafe for Drinking." "Sure," I thought, "No one should drink alcohol in these peaks. That's asking for a Darwin award." I then saw a pipe with crystal clear water pouring out of it, trickling down into the river below. I had to taste it. I collected a handful of the pure-looking water and tasted it. I then realized this beautiful, delicious tasting water was what the sign above was referencing. I quickly spat out the water and continued spitting intermittently for the next ten minutes.

Needless to say, this whole move is a learning experience for me. I've never seen peaks so high or water so clear. I've never dealt with such kind people. I've never seen how beautiful and simple life can be. I know I still have a great deal to learn before I really understand all Thermopolis has to offer, but I feel like I've hit the ground running, trying to take in every fresh breath of air and enjoy every moment in this quiet, little mountain town.

I've come a long way from the swamps and bayous of Louisiana, and I feel as if I never want to go back. Thermopolis is everything I've looked for in my dream place to live and more. I'm excited to be starting a new life here and contributing everything I can to this community that already feels like home.