Holy cow, it has been quite awhile since I’ve written a blog. Lots of things have happened. I got a new job where I can work in my sweatpants, and I moved to California. It’s been a lot all at once, so I’ve been a bit behind on the personal writing. I am finally settled and ready to start back up again! I thought I would start a new series on what it’s like being in a completely different place where you don’t know anyone, something that happens a lot after graduation.

I moved from Portland, OR to the Bay Area about two weeks ago and I’ve noticed a few differences, beside the obvious fact that there is no water falling from the sky. As someone who has never live in California, I’ve heard a lot of stereotypes about the state. I have taken it upon myself to once and for all either prove or put to rest the five most prominent.

People drive like maniacs: Absolutely true

I’ve always been a cautious driver because controlling a giant piece of metal that could kill someone makes me a bit nervous. In Oregon I found my people. Everyone is too polite to correctly use a four-way stop and are too scared to change lanes on the highway, so coming to California was a bit of a shock. It’s not that people here drive poorly, just aggressively. They will change lanes when they want to whether you’re in the way or not.

There are juice bars on every corner: Not True

Lea Michele’s Instagram would lead you to believe all people consume in this state is juice, but I have yet to see one juice bar. There is a build-you-own milkshake down the road but I don’t think that would be Lea approved.

Everyone talks about driving a lot: Yep. Big Time.

The SNL sketch The Californians suggests traffic is a huge part of the conversation, and I can now assure you, it is. I was at a party last weekend and the last half an hour was reserved to everyone talking about which highways they were taking to get home. I understand that driving is a big part of life for people in this part of the world, but I don’t think I will ever be interested if someone is taking the 880 or not.

Everyone Surfs: Not True

The cashier at Safeway, the teller at Wells Fargo and the woman who made my bagel this morning do not surf, I’ve been asking. I’ve only talked to three people, but I’ll keep the poll going because that’s not obnoxious. I will admit I really hoped everyone just brought boards to work just in case there’s a sick wave.

It is a celebrity paradise: Nope. 

I have not seen one famous person. Granted I’m living in the Bay Area and not Beverly Hills, but I’m still disappointed.

This is an ongoing study, and I will keep you updated.