After watching the documentary The End of Suburbia, I have been thinking about the difference between living in a suburban subdivision and a city neighborhood. While living in a large house in the suburbs with a big backyard outside the hustle and bustle of the city may appeal to some, it just doesn't quite cut for me. Something is missing. What is it?

I grew up in a neighborhood just south of the river in the city. My family and I were able to walk to the library, the movie theatre, the five and dime store, the ice cream shop, numerous restaurants, parks and playgrounds. I could see the fireworks from Dogwood Dell from the fort in my backyard. We knew all the neighbors. We would ride our bikes up and down the sidewalks which would be covered in chalk drawings. Unfortunately, the city's schools aren't the best. After elementary school, most of my friends either went to private schools or moved to the counties. My family falls into the later category.

Life in the suburbs offered different experiences. There were trips out to Short Pump, which was mostly farmland at the time, to go ice skating and to the movies.The school system offered a very well rounded education and unique opportunities. It was a safe place to raise a family. Anything and everything you could ever want was within a five mile drive.

Now that I live back in the city, I can see what is missing in suburbia. By living in an area where mostly everything is within walking distance, I am able to truly experience my surroundings. Walking puts me a the same level as the street, the store fronts, the beautiful flower gardens and my neighbors. I am able to interact with my environment and fully enjoy it. Neighbors are able to develop a true sense of a community and take a vested interest in their neighborhood.

Today a trip to the grocery store to pick up milk becomes a relaxing walk instead of a frustrating 20 minute drive in rush hour traffic. And right now I wouldn't pass that up for anything.