Long Distance: Heather (Cook) Williams

Here: LSU veterinary student

There: Veterinarian in Washington, D.C.

When did you leave Baton Rouge?

Two years ago.

What do you miss?

I miss my friends. When you leave, it’s hard, but there’s this sense that it’s time to go because everyone else is going. I grew up in Baton Rouge in a lot of ways and made some of the best friends. A lot of those people are still there, and that’s hard.

What don’t you miss?

The mosquitoes. The roaches. All the freakishly large bugs.

What does your new city have that you wish Baton Rouge had?

The most redeeming thing about where I live now is my husband! We just got married about a month ago. Four actual seasons and a ski resort within easy driving distance. The 9:30 Club (Nightclub 9:30).

What’s essential when you come back to visit?

Besides bug spray? Grilled cheese and tomato soup at Chelsea’s, a drink at Red Star, a parade downtown, crawfish and lounging on a porch with a bottle of wine.

When were you in town last?

Sadly November 2006. I didn’t do anything specific. My friends have an absurd way of turning any ordinary day into a party.