A long drive from Cartersville to the mountains of North Carolina led to a rushed meetup in Boone, home of the Appalachian State Mountaineers. With windows down and the cool mountain breeze flowing in and out of the car, I felt relaxed and excited at the same time. My stepsister greeted me with open arms, and a comfortable couch to sleep on. One thing led to the next, and we were riding the bus to the football stadium, where thousands of college students meet up every Saturday for a good time. The section of students, loud and ready for a win, chanted down to the players on the field. 

Standing on the bleachers with the students, I felt like I belonged with my polo shirt and khaki shorts. A brief beautiful sunrise filled the sky by the fourth quarter, as everyone fell silent in awe. The game ended way too soon, and the bus ride back was long and hot. One short car ride later, the neon lights and smells of Cookout quickly filled the car. Burgers and milkshakes were being passed around the car, sweat still dripping down my shirt. Next thing I knew we were back at the apartment, watching another football game on the television. The flavors of the patty, cheese, and bacon stuck with my taste buds throughout the night. The Oreo milkshake is just as refreshing as a chilled glass of water. By 3 o’clock, everyone had occupied their bedroom, and I was on the warm leather couch watching Talladega Nights. The leather sticking to my skin was pleasing and uncomfortable simultaneously.  

My eyes were feeling heavy, and I noticed the walls of the apartment were plastered with posters of rock bands and vibrant colors. Falling asleep as soon as my head hit my pillow, the sun rose shortly after, and it was a new day. A small breakfast and coffee woke me up, and my polo shirt and khaki shorts turned into a hoodie and sweatpants due to the chilly breeze circulating the mountainside.