Columbus quirks

Intro: this is an email I started about a year ago but just never sent. I just found it in my gmail "drafts" folder, and I thought you might enjoy it.

Hi family and friends,

I wanted to share a few funny things about Columbus with you. I've been inspired by our mutual friend Kathleen Young, who writes a monthly news-email to her family and friends. So you can look forward to more of these, hopefully accompanied by pictures in the future.

First, some reflections on "the city with character." Where I grew up in Provo, all the buildings are new. Everything looks kind of glossy and plastic-ish.

Since moving to Ohio, I have been delighted to experience Columbus--a city with real character. Here, every shop reflects tons of history, like the buildings have been around for much longer than Cam or I have been alive. Also, businesses here are not opposed to the use of creative advertising. Across the street from us, The Speed Factory bicycle shop posts a neon sign in the window: WE MAKE SPEED. Down the road a mile, a mexican restaurant boasts burritos "as big as your head." A couple of miles to the North, the outline of the Laughing Ogre can be seen on a huge awning over a mysteriously large store (I don't know what they sell).

I have also been struck by the number of tiny businesses that abound, especially along High Street (the street our apartment complex opens onto). Business that would be considered too lowly for the marketplace in Provo are healthy here in Columbus. Lots of old, wooden signs with cursive lettering painted on, advertising little hair salons, curios shops, etc.

I'm sure some of the differences between my Provo and Columbus experiences are due to the area of town I lived in. But even still, it's fun to note the differences.