Dear California,

I don't remember you much since I was born in your city of Anaheim, grew up in Huntington Beach and Long Beach, and then moved away when I was 9 years old. I only got 9 years to be with you and those years were when I was growing up and not really old enough to think about you and everything you offer. But for a few years before we moved, I did get to experience some. Just not the more glamorous stuff you offer like the beaches, Yellowstone National Park, or all that Hollywood offers that draws people in to come visit. I did get the luxury of trying your delicious In-N-Out Burger restaurant! I also had the adventure of riding buses and subways to travel to different locations. Your weather was always nice, although sometimes it was so nice that it was a little miserable. But, it was always consistent.

Living in California and having all my family live here in Indiana did make my life more interesting. Each summer my grandparents would fly out and spend that time with us. There were a few times when my mom and I flew out to see them, and because of that, I can say what most people can't- that I basically was raised with wings. I flew when I was younger quite a bit. That is probably why I don't mind flying like some do, and I quite enjoy it. There were even a few times where I had to fly all by my young self. The first time I was a little scared, but by the third time or so I felt like a pro.

I remember when we flew back here to stay in Indiana that my mom and I were used to California weather and didn't think about the seasonal weather here. We flew back and landed on Christmas Eve. Naturally, there was snow on the ground and it was extremely cold outside. We were wearing shorts, t-shirts, and flip flops and were so unprepared for the cold weather. Luckily, my grandparents brought us coats and we changed into pants before we left.

There are definitely times I miss living in Long Beach like I used to or anywhere there. I always thought it would be so amazing and awesome to live somewhere like Los Angeles or Hollywood. Where all the main stuff happens, but who knows. Maybe I will when I am older. Although, now I don't see myself leaving Indiana with all my family and new friends here. Plus, I have gotten used to the seasonal weather and quite enjoy it all, except the ice. I could live without that.

I miss my friends and all the people we had to leave behind though. But, luckily with the power of social media, I get to stay in some contact with them. I also miss In-N-Out Burger and this yummy taco truck my mother and I used to go to by our storage facility. I miss the awesome parties my Hispanic friend and her family used to throw that I got invited to. I miss getting an ice cream every so often when the ice cream truck drove around my town. Unfortunately we don't have one of those around where I live now. I also miss having a pool, in general, to swim in. I sadly and unfortunately don't remember all the great times and memories I had in California and that makes me a little frustrated. But I do know that I am glad I got the opportunity at all to grow up there, if only for a bit, and experience all I did. I will cherish that time for the rest of my life. In my eyes, I will always be a Cali Girl born and somewhat raised!