In Springfield, time seems to pass a little slower. I was there last week from mid-morning to afternoon, and the neighborhood’s noticeably relaxed nature was similar to Atlantic Beach. But I would argue that Atlantic Beach is more chill.

Springfields chill is more of a quietness. Large oak trees draping the residential sidewalks, mid-day sun pouring over anyone who walks down Main Street, and quiet streets with old trucks parked in front of Victorian homes that are slowly getting restored.

In one moment, I felt like I could have been on the set for Steel Magnolias (1989) or any other type of southern film that involves sleepy streets dripping with Spanish moss like molasses from a large spoon.

Thankfully, it’s not all pretend; it’s a real neighborhood with a healthy downtown that keeps growing and growing.

Thanks for reading. – Esther