Southeast (U.S.)

Feel the warm sun on your face. Wiggle your toes in my soft, warm sand. Splash in my gentle ocean waves that say shhh, shhh. I am a cozy, green corner of the country. I have lots of sweet-smelling flowers and tall, sleepy trees that sway in the breeze. I love when birds sing in my branches. Hello there. I am the Southeast, a special part of the United States. I am so happy you are here to listen to my story. I have so many wonderful things to share with you.

A long, long time ago, I had my very first friends. They were the Native American people, like the wonderful Cherokee. They knew all my secrets and loved my forests and rivers. They knew where the juiciest berries grew and which streams whispered the quietest songs as they trickled over smooth stones. They took great care of me, and I loved them very much. Then, one day, new visitors came. They sailed in big ships across the big blue ocean. An explorer named Juan Ponce de León arrived on a sunny day, April 2nd, 1513. More and more people came to live with me. They all shared their favorite songs and stories. Together, they made brand new music, like happy jazz that makes you want to dance. They also cooked yummy foods that tickle your tummy and make everyone smile.

Today, so many friends come to play with me. Children laugh and build big sandcastles on my sandy beaches. Families go for walks on my gentle mountains, looking for squirrels and pretty leaves. In my cities, people tap their feet to happy music and sing along to joyful songs. I love to hear their happy sounds. I am a place full of sunshine, songs, and friendly smiles. I love sharing my stories and warm hugs with everyone who visits. Come play with me anytime. I will always have a warm, sunny hello waiting for you.