Almost two years ago I took a trip to the west coast and crossed "go to California" off of my bucket list. I went with my boyfriend (now fiancé) to visit his family and to see where he was born. During my two weeks in Carlsbad, San Diego I learned quite a few things about the west coast and about myself. Some are things that are comical, and some are things that I will never forget.

1) I learned that I truly hate bugs. The coast of California is known for its beautiful weather, besides the morning smog, lack of humidity (which my hair enjoyed), and breathtaking scenery. What I didn't know is the coast also is practically bug free. Going from being in an area where bugs are always flying around and biting you, to no bugs at all - was a soft skinned, mosquito magnet's dream come true.

2) That leads me to realization number two. I have spent the past 10 years of my life living in the country and am technically from the south (since that's what Virginia is). I learned in California that I do indeed have a southern accent, and that "y'all" isn't a real word. Weird, right?

3) I learned I had never truly seen TRAFFIC before. I'm still sorry you California commuters have to sit in that everyday...

4) I learned that I'm glad water on the east coast is murky. Because the clear, beautiful water of the west coast allows you to see exactly what you're swimming with... I was better off before I knew!

... Yes. I saw a little shark by my feet. I still cringe thinking about it.

5) I learned that In-N-Out is truly awesome. And that there is indeed a secret menu.

*** This is a double-double animal style with a Neapolitan milkshake ***

6) I learned that I could eat tacos everyday for the rest of my life. Hands down, best fish tacos I've ever had. You just never get tired of how delicious they are!

7) I learned that sunsets on the ocean are even more beautiful than sunrises on the ocean. I watched the sun set on the water practically every night we were there.

8) I learned that I had a desire for adventure. This was my first real trip away from my family and I figured out on those two weeks that, yes I missed them, but that I had to go more places. That I HAD to see the world because it is so big and beautiful and full of adventure.

9) I learned that I was going to marry the guy I went on that vacation with. I learned that I was fortunate enough to have a best friend and life partner standing there with me. After that trip, I knew there was no separating the two of us!

10) I learned that family isn't just the crazy group of people you're born into. I love my family so much, don't get me wrong! But during those two weeks I learned I had another family too. I was welcomed and loved by people who had never met me before, but who I felt like I had known my whole life. My now future family took me in as one of their own and I will love them forever for that.

11) Lastly, I learned that I couldn't wait to go back... and that I couldn't wait to take my friends there! When you find a place that feels like another home, you feel the urge to share it with the people you love!

My first TRUE adventures were those two weeks on the west coast and I am forever thankful for that.