The hub of Elkhart Lake and Off the Rail Cafe

I love living in a small town. Our population is 1,100. We are actually considered a village, not a town.  As I sat outside at the our little bustling cafe, Off the Rail, waiting for my lunch to go today, I found myself smiling.

The cafe is right in the hub of all the activity in the downtown area.  The second hub is only three blocks away. That happens to be the only 4-way stop in town.  Yup, you read it right- the ONLY 4-way stop.  You should see that 4-way stop on one of the race weekends here in the summer. It is super busy and sometimes we even need a cop to direct the traffic!  Elkhart Lake is known for Road America race track so we can attract over 100,000 visitors during some of the major races. I swear if I were flying overhead during one of those weekends, I’d see the little village bulging at the sides!

During warmer weather and when I have time, you will find Frankie and I at the cafe about once a week, dining outside, with my bike parked close by.  Sitting outside I can see the park and library to the left, Lake Street Cafe (fun dining experience!) to the right, and the train depot museum in front of me (where the Farmer’s Market is held each Saturday in summer).

As I waited for my lunch I was thankful for my small town. It feels like a cozy warm hug each time I venture out.  I’ve lived here for about 23 years now and within the past five years I’ve gotten to know so many more people because of Frankie. They have truly embraced her and her story. Someone is always asking me how she is doing if I don’t have her with me.

When I was young I thought I wanted to be a big city girl until I traveled to New York City for a college trip. I was terribly homesick. I’ve come to realize I love small town life and am somewhat of a homebody. I used to be embarrassed to admit that- silly, huh?  But now I embrace it and love it- it’s who I am.

So do you like small town life or are you a big city person?  And why?  I would love to hear your thoughts!