The big question since I’ve temporarily relocated to Southern California has been, “Is it going to be hard for you to go back?” The idea that I could love a place that was colder, wetter, dirtier, and less vegan-friendly is foreign to some of my native California acquaintances, so I thought it would be fun to give you my feelings on the Golden State:

Everyone kindly asks you if you have dietary needs, in many cases because they themselves do. I’ve had to turn down a lot of avocados out here.
Traffic is terrible and much worse than the East. There is no other way to say this.
Rain is scarce (yay!) but needed (boo). Weather is obviously nice 95% of the time here. Downside, I have to hold back an eye roll when someone says 50 degrees is cold.
At first I wondered if everyone was so sincerely happy, and I’ve come to find that they really are. Perhaps the phony people live in LA, but much of Orange County residents remain pretty down to earth.
They don’t seem to call it skim milk here, just non-fat. Oftentimes this is not an option, so I go with almond milk.
Mexican food is way better overall than back home.
If you were driving on 76 back home, Californians would call it “the 76.” I may have adopted this language for now, but trust me, this is unnatural.
The stereotypical “surfer guy” exists- I’ve met him.
I’ll be bringing back some California style- pink sunglasses, Vans slip-ons, and easy everyday clothes.
Van living is alive and well out here. I’m enthralled and would love to try it one day!
Many CA residents who I encounter are not native, but people who came and never wanted to leave. Not sure if many Philadelphians fall into this category…
Californians say hi to each other SO often, even when you are running by with headphones in your ears.

All in all, I definitely like it. But don’t worry Mom, I’m coming home. There’s something about the grunge of the East Coast, the fast-paced nature, and the strong daily hustle that will forever suit my personality.