I find it amazing to behold: in small towns, the people are close and enjoy the "family" feel. Yet, they become very provincial, not wanting to venture beyond their known borders. Life seems to revolve around the same issues daily. I grew up that way, too, but once I experienced life outside the small town, I felt suffocated when I returned there. I couldn't stand having the same conversation every evening! I moved my mother away from the small town when she was 69. After about a year living in a larger urban environment, she said, "i existed for the first 69 years of my life. I am now living!"