For the past few weeks of the summer I have been informing you, the great people of Maple Valley, about the great things that locals in our community have done or are doing currently. However, unless you recognize my name, you have zero idea who I am.

My name is Erica Spalti. I am a Tahoma grad from the class of 2007 and gearing up for my senior year at Central Washington University where I am getting my degree in English. I have also lived in Maple Valley the majority of my life.

Now, like every high school senior I couldn’t wait to leave. I was sick of the “small town life,” nothing exciting happened and nothing ever changed. I was ready for big adventures in big places; but where did I move? Ellensburg. Which, if you have never been there, is not much different from the city of Maple Valley.

After spending my freshman year in Ellensburg and realizing that nothing happens there either, I was quick to change my perspective about this great city. I realized that coming back that first summer that I missed my old city and I missed the normal.

And now, depending on where my future takes me, I am taking in this summer, as it could be my last in Maple Valley, to remember how Maple Valley feels and what Maple Valley is. To remember how being home feels.

Today, I hear so many teenagers saying “I hate Maple Valley and I can’t wait to graduate and get out of here.” Well I am here to tell you, don’t be in such a hurry to grow up and get out because one day, you will look back, and you will realize that no matter where you go, this is home.

Maple Valley is home. It’s where the city shuts down for Tahoma football games, where Maple Valley Days is the social event of the year, and it’s the home of the world’s best burger joint — Village Inn and on any Friday night in the summer you can find college kids gathering to swap party and college stories.

More importantly this is where I grew up. I have seen so many changes in the city throughout the years, which I never noticed before. Some changes for good, others make me shake my head and say “are you serious?” but in the end, I know that these changes are ultimately for the better of the city. It is sad to think that this could be my last summer in “the valley”; however, I know that this place will always be here and I know I will always have a place to come home to.

Thank you to the city of Maple Valley and the amazing people who work at The Maple Valley Reporter for giving me the opportunity to report and write stories about the city.

Also, thank you to my parents for always giving me a place to call home.