I can't relate. I come here and feel comfortable, sure...a little too comfortable even. Being comfortable doesn't necessarily mean that you're part of something though and I think deep down that's what everyone desires. Familiarity often leads to boredom, which is the exact reason why I had to escape while I could. I'm happy where I am and this place forces me to grow, whether I like it or not.
I'll always go back to my roots to feel nostalgic, but a final return will never happen, as long as I can help it. In defense of my upbringing there are places in Green Bay that make me feel warm and fuzzy inside. Here are those places. My pseudo-yelp review of Green Bay in it's entirety.
Antique Store
Every time I'm back in town I make it a point to stop in here. I could get lost for hours. It's basically a flea market full of the best vintage goods one could possibly hope for. No one is ever in there besides the owner. This place just makes me smile and feel like a mesmerized child. I usually walk away with some hand-sown vintage dress, postcards and presents for those who mean something to me.
Zesty's
Just about everyday during my grammar school days, I'd walk the mile with all of my buddies dressed in plaid pleated schoolgirl skirts and get the “Flavor of the Day”. Best custard in all of Wisconsin. Did I mention this place is 50's themed? And not in a tacky “we want to make money” sort of way? Well, maybe it is now...the novelty of the place has certainly worn off...but back in it's Hay Day...this place was my Rushmore.
Kroll's West
In the shadow of Lambeau Field. This is where everyone who is anyone gets fucked up before Packer games. It rules. Seriously. Cover Bands? Check. Cheese Curds? Check. An overwhelming abundance of Miller Lite? Check. Locals dressed in green and gold zebra print Zumbas? Double check. Butter Burgers? Good god....CHECK! I go here every time I'm home without fail.
Gas Stations
Only Green Bay would sell Davey Crocket hats (suitably next to the shirts with dog faces and lighter fluid) at their gas station.
Lambeau field
LAAAAAAAAAAAAAMBEEEEEEEAAAAAAUUUUUUUU FEEEEEEEEEEEEIIIIIILLLLLLLLLDDDDDDDDDDDD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I honestly cannot even write a proper review for this place that can fully justify my unconditional love. If I could live here, I would. Apparently they allow weddings here, though....next best thing.
Some house that Caitlin “house-sits” for
The older couple who lives here rules. They are on the board of directors for the Packers. They have an entire room full of packer paraphernalia. They have a sauna, indoor pool, steam room, awesome dog named Molly, sun room, backyard to die for, amazing view of the entire city....I could really go on. I'm not rich by any means, so whenever my best friend Caitlin stays here...I get to pretend that I'm worthy of such luxuries.
CC's Bowling Alley
This place is right down the street from the barn that Caitlin works at. They have beers for like 70 cents....my mind was BLOWN the first time I went here. Friday night fish fries are probably amongst my top 20 favorite things of all time. Beer battered perch. Need I say more? Plus, it's crowded with old people who dress like cowboys.
Al's Hamburgers
You want a flashback? You got it. I used to come here all the time with my dad during his lunch break at work. We'd sit at the counter and talk to Al. He'd start us off with the usual Coke for my dad and a Chocolate Malt for me. Their malts are the best...they don't skimp on the ice cream and give you all the leftovers...two-malts-in-one, I'd always think. In the duration of all the chitter-chatter with the locals and a half devoured malt later...our cheeseburgers with a side of fries would be ready for consumption. Their patties are handmade and they have the best goddamn cooked down onions in the world...they disintegrate right next to the burgers on the large open grill. It'd take my dad and I approximately 10 minutes to finish our meal. We'd leave feeling like someone just gave us an hour long hug. This place will always be close to my heart.
I know my review of Green Bay is dominated by food, but it's what makes me feel comforted, okay? I'll always love this place and will always come back simply for my great friends that live there and my family that I adore. Although, these places are remnants of my past...I still have much to discover.
Dear Chicago,
You are my oyster.
Love,
Jen
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