Since I moved to Roanoke from Boston, this new city didn't feel like something I could call "urban" while keeping a straight face. But, now I'm not so sure. Last week I had my most urban experience yet since moving to Roanoke.
I've come to know Cassie and Amber, two creative and ambitious sisters, through working with them at Sweet Donkey Coffee. On this afternoon, they shepherded me to hidden downtown spots that I never would have found on my own. From graffiti to concrete rooftops to actual cityscapes, it was invigorating to see Roanoke in a different light. (Amber's booming hip-hop music may have helped, too.) Hanging out with new friends and seeing a resemblance to my old neighborhood made Roanoke feel a bit less like a strange new place and a bit more like something I could call home.