Five years in Fresno

Today marks the 5th anniversary of my residence in California. I look back and see all the things I have learned, the people I have met, and the experiences that I have had the fortune (or misfortune) of experiencing and I am truly amazed. When I first moved here, I hardly knew anything about Fresno except that the name meant "Ash Tree." Heck, I didn't even know what an "Ash Tree" was. And now, as the morning sun creeps into my bedroom, as the birds sing to each other, and the cool breeze of dawn flutters the venetian blinds, I realize how amazing it is to inhale the sweet fragrance of the nearby citrus orchards in bloom. Not many other places have such a way of welcoming you to a new day. Five years ago, I may have been too preoccupied to notice. I was going through the motions of moving in, fitting in, and living in Fresno. People who have changed their humble abodes at least once know what I'm talking about. There's the excitement of discovering the nuances and quirks of a new place but also the unsteady doubt of finding your way. I'm still finding my way. Fortunately, I don't need that Fresno map as much any more! There are many people who wonder why I moved to Fresno in the first place. Why Fresno and not LA or San Francisco or one of those quintessential California towns on the coast? My answer to them, "Why not Fresno?" The people are great, the city is just the right size, and it's not too far from the mountains or the ocean. Heck, it's not even that far from San Fran or L.A (if that's your thing). I just felt at home here immediately. Coming from a big city, I was glad not to be battling traffic. There's nothing I hate more than my engine idling in sea of others doing the same thing. Idle mind? Puh-lease! Idle engines are ten times worse! However, the main thing that led me here was the job and the prospect of starting something new. I really was taking a leap of faith but it has all worked out so far. No regrets except the occasional longing for Htown friends and family. Life has certainly been busy these days but I'm grateful that every once in a while, I have the time to stop and smell the citrus.