I am a native Virginian. Though I grew up a mere 40 miles from the border of West Virginia I have seen very little of the state. Recently I've made an effort to change that, spurred on by a goal to find geocaches in new counties. In the past two months I've traveled through West Virginia several times, visiting new areas and finding beauty wherever I went. As I drove along highways and back roads, the sweet voice of John Denver played through my mind, and on the radio, describing the wonders of the Mountain State and making me feel at home. The lyrics of "Take Me Home, Country Roads" paint vivid pictures of tradition, comfort, homecoming, and nostalgia. Who wouldn't want to go there?
Though the scenery alone makes a trip to West Virginia worthwhile, I learned first hand that the people are even more extraordinary. My last trip to West Virginia took an unexpected turn, literally, and I ended up stranded and relying on help from strangers. I was overwhelmed by the generosity and caring of ordinary people who didn't hesitate to offer assistance. Their kindness was unparalleled and unforgetable. I call them my "West Virginia angels". It is fitting that they live in a place described as "almost heaven".
This cache is my way of thanking the wonderful people of our neighboring state and paying tribute to the natural beauty to be seen there. If you have a story to tell of West Virginia, please share it in your log! Pictures of WV are also encouraged (but not required).
Sunset over Grafton, West Virginia - 2.20.21