Let me preface this entry with one comment: I am an East-coaster for life.
I like L.A., I really do. It's been my home for a little over two years now. The move here was a change of pace, literally. My world slowed down. The lifestyle is significantly more laid-back than I had expected. I think some would describe it as "leisurely" or "relaxed". It's not necessarily a negative, just different. Sometimes the lack of haste tests my patience, but learning to have more never killed anyone, right?
Despite this new atmosphere, one aspect I have thoroughly enjoyed is meeting the people of L.A. Having encountered both locals and transplants, it's been a thrilling and enlightening experience. There's my tattoo artist, whose eight-year old son travels with Ozzfest; the eccentric Canadien who adores her pet rats and horned lizard; and my carpenter friend posing as a PhD student with a proclivity for living out of his VW van.
I can say that my penchant for beaches, lack of humidity, and vegetarian-friendly food has been satisfied. I am still adjusting to Pacific Standard Time when it comes to televised sports. However, I can't argue with a 5 PM MNF start time after a long Monday.
I still haven't completely embraced SoCal. But maybe in another two years, after connecting with a few more quirky characters, the city will have grown on me.
- Shannon Carroll