Both my grandma, and grandpa on my mother’s side are originally from West Virginia. It’s not all that far away from where we live but my grandma is the only one who regularly makes trips back home.

Recently my mom asked if I’d be interested in a taking a small, weekend road trip with her, and my grandparents to see where they grew up. I couldn’t say yes fast enough.

On Saturday, my grandma opted to stay back and spend the day with her sister. Just my grandpa, mom and I went out exploring. He showed us all around the area he grew up, pointed out where people he knew lived, places he hung out and more. It was a really special experience. One of my favorite stops was where he went to school. It’s since been abandoned which, of course, makes it about a thousand times more interesting to me.

We snooped all around the property and peeked in all the windows we could despite the numerous no trespassing signs. He showed us where he used to hang out behind the school with my grandma. It was so incredible to be able to visit there. I’m really glad it was still standing. We visited another school he went to in his youth that wasn’t so lucky. All that was left standing of his primary school was the chimney, which was still super neat to see.