By Lora Abernathy

When I was younger, I dreamed of moving to Ohio.

I loved my home state of West Virginia, but, always the adventurer, I wanted to live elsewhere. Ohio was perfect. It was a much bigger state with vibrant major metros — and it was right next door.

I am proud to announce that this past February was my 10-year anniversary of being a Buckeye.

My husband, Gary, and I met in December 2001 at an event he was coordinating for his new job. He had just moved to West Virginia from Columbus for work. Three short months later, we were wed.

Three years later, he took a job in Dayton where we lived for two years. He then started his own consulting business. This meant he could work from anywhere, so we moved back to his home county of Highland to be closer to his kids. We’ve been here ever since.

I have developed a passionate heart for southwest Ohio. When I was the online editor for some of our newspapers in the area a few years ago, I was privileged to travel the region. I fell in love with the scenery, the people, the culture, the vibe of this unique land.

With each story from our contributors in this magazine, I learn something new and special about this area, and it makes me appreciate my life here even more.

Two issues back, Salt magazine celebrated its fifth-anniversary edition. We have shared many stories of this region during the last five years. We know there are many more to tell.

If you have a story idea, shoot me an email at [email protected]. I can’t promise we can pursue each idea, but we certainly would like to have your suggestions to consider.

My favorite stretch of road in these parts is easily State Route 247 from Hillsboro to West Union. The further south the road takes you, the sharper the curves, the steeper the roads and the more abundant the hills become. It reminds me of West Virginia.

After 10 years, I still miss my home state immensely. My roots and soul will always belong to the hills. But I’m grateful and thrilled life brought me here to this great place.

O-H! …