A little over a year and a half ago, my family and I jumped in the car mere minutes after my high school graduation and began a four day drive across the country to Redding, California where we would begin our new lives as Northern Californians. Thinking back to the second semester of my senior year in high school, I can remember all of the surprised and confused looks I received from my friends and other random people I knew as they learned that I, a small town girl from the midwest, was leaving to become "one of those crazy Californians." However, I love California and more importantly I love living in Redding. So, here are ten reasons why Redding California has become my personal Shire.

1. Diversity

If I could only use one word to describe what it is like living in Redding, California, I would use "diverse". There are people who come from all over the world to live in Redding for various reasons. I think the diversity found in town is beautiful. I have always believed that having diversity in one's life is important and California is full of it.

2. The lack of chain restaurants

I have never been a huge fan of chain restaurants and Redding has plenty local cuisines available to enjoy. From the Hearth is a personal family favorite. The staff members are always friendly and every piece of food is served fresh to order. I can honestly say that I have never had a meal there that hasn't tasted amazing and the calming atmosphere is the perfect place to grab lunch after church or have a personal study session.

3. The Misty Mountains

One of the best things about living in Redding is the fact that this place is surrounded on both sides by mountains that are both a short drive away. If an individual's deepest desire is to take a hike up a mountain, Mt. Shasta and Lassen Volcanic National Park have plenty of trails to explore.

4. The Coast

Much like the mountains that surround this beautiful town, the coast is only a short drive away. Therefore, if the ocean is more of your thing, it is there for you to enjoy.

5. Simpson University

One of the greatest blessings that I have received since moving to Redding California has been attending Simpson University. This beautiful liberal arts college has stole my heart and I suspect that I am not going to get it back anytime soon. Studying English here has been and continues to be one of the greatest pleasure of my life.

6. Bethel Church

Bethel Church, without going into much detail, has revolutionized my own personal faith walk and has helped bring my family out of a rocky period in our life. There is also no doubt that Bethel has expanded my family in a way that I never thought possible because we now have friends and family members that are from all over the world. Bethel also has a coffee shop that brews some heavenly coffee and chai tea.

7. The short drive to Ashland, Oregon

As an English major at Simpson University, I have made many trips up to Ashland, Oregon and I love it. The Shakespeare Festival that resides there is wonderful and the town itself is a creative individual's dream.

8. The small town shopping

Redding, California basically has one of every major store found in a America. In other words, if your looking for a third Target, you're out of luck. However, Redding has a number of speciality stores that are unique to the area. The Crowning Jewels and Altered Wings are two of my personal favorites.

9. The Holiday Christmas Displays

Some people I know from the midwest have asked me weather or not people in California really get into the Christmas spirit due to the fact that it doesn't seem to snow that often in Redding during the holidays if at all. Snow or no snow, to be completely honest, I think that Redding, California has more Christmas spirit than anywhere I have ever seen based only upon the countless amounts of awesome Christmas displays found around the city.

10. The Weather

Growing up in the midwest I always hated winter and frankly I still do. Therefore, being able to live in a place where the weather is relatively warm all year round makes this woman extremely happy.