Natural Progression

Moving is a part of life, and it is necessary for an individual to mature into a well-round adult. I grew up in the Seattle area, and I went to college 90 miles north of the my hometown--Don't you dare think that's enough distance to "get-away." Needless to say, when the opportunity to move to Cali arose, I clammered for the chance at a clean slate--a clean slate from the nest... Sounds like serenity, doesn't it?

I wouldn't say moving to California has been calming, but it has opened a lot of doors. But there was a catch, I had to live in the small town of Ojai, a "city" of 8,000 people strong. Don't feel sorry for me--no, Ojai is an absolute paradise, but an isolated mountain town. It's located just outside of Los Angeles. I maybe in cowboy country, but I feel like I am in the center of the world. California has the eighth largest economy in the world. Did you know that?

However, I do miss my buddies and the buzz of living in a city full of people and possibilities.

I've spent a lot of time in Ojai over my life. I've always been close with my aunt and uncle who also live in Ojai. My aunt Betsy was also my hero going up. She is the kind of free spirit who is completely straight forward, she'll tell you how it is, but she has a hint of class clown. She would always take me out to go find snakes, spiders, bears and lizards. Naturally, living close to them feels right.

One thing I will say about moving is don't do it alone. If you can, move with a friend. I think the exception to that rule would be living in a large, crowded city. But on those nights after a long day at work, it would be nice to see a familiar face.