Baton Rouge:: A Love Story

Baton Rouge, we’ve made it!

We’re approaching our nine year anniversary, and we should celebrate!

But before we raise a glass, we should reflect on our relationship. We’ve had our very own Ragin’ Cajun of emotions, but I believe it has made our connection stronger.

You know how they say the first year is the hardest? It was no different with us. Initially moving here fresh out of college with no real friends outside of my spouse and family, it was tough. Lots of life happened and I blamed you. It wasn’t your fault, but I continued to pick you apart and compared you old loves of the past. You weren’t clean like Knoxville. Not as familiar as Memphis. Not as safe as Omaha. Not flashy like Houston. I felt the distance between us but continued to go through the motions for the sake of my son. After all, his family was here. The thoughts of leaving continued to happen but I just couldn’t walk away.

I was complacent. But just like any successful relationship, you have to put in work. And I wasn’t putting in the work.

I visited your churches and found a home to worship. I made a point to research local restaurants and dine there. I joined a gym and built relationships in a positive environment. I put myself out there, and you accepted me despite how rocky our past was. I went to tailgates, parades, festivals, and concerts and started really appreciating who you are. I see your beauty when I’m on 1-10 at 4:45 on a weekday. I see your kindness Saturday mornings at the Farmer’s Market. I saw your resilience the entire summer of 2016. And wow. That just made me love you more.

Our relationship isn’t perfect, Baton Rouge, but it’s a work in progress. I’m proud to be with you. You are home. Even when Atlanta whispers sweet nothings in my ear, don’t worry. I’m not going anywhere.

Camille
Camille has always had ties to Baton Rouge even though she didn’t live here until she finished college. Both of her parents grew up in the Red Stick but she was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. After graduating from the University of Tennessee (Go Vols!) with a BA in Communication Studies, she moved to Baton Rouge and welcomed her adorable son Caleb (7) less than a year later. She navigated life being a divorced mom until 2015 when she married her incredibly supportive husband Chris in San Francisco. They welcomed baby Christian in the summer of 2017. Truly a “Jane of all Trades”, she has worked in non-profit, local news, retail management, and owned a successful childcare facility. All roads led her to be an elementary school teacher which she believes is her calling. Camille enjoys “family fun days” where they explore BR, CrossFit, baking, and drinking all the coffee. She lives with her family in Ascension Parish with their chubby puggle Chloe.

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