CaliOkie

Well, we made the move. We are now residents of Clovis, California (suburb of Fresno) in what is known as the central valley. That's right, this Oklahoma born-and-raised Sun Devil is now part of the nickel-nickel-nine. Although I'm told Fresno is as "midwest" as you get in California, I have seen lots of differences that we've never encountered in Oklahoma or Arizona. First, "clean air vehicles" have their own parking spaces, right up there as close as handicapped spots. And they love U-turns. Seriously, they're everywhere. In several places, it's the only way to get where you want to go. And of course, produce is a big deal here in Fresno. There are farmers markets just about every day somewhere in the city, some of which are more like weekly block parties. The food? Ahhh-mazing. There's a larger variety of fruits and vegetables out here than I've ever seen before, especially "hybrid" fruits. And the organic section at the grocery store is about half of the whole produce area. And is it me or is "organic" not quite as expensive as it was in Oklahoma?
I think we'll enjoy our time here, but I've already told the hubby I definitely think this area is temporary for us. He says I should calm down since we've only been here a week. Why do I feel this way? Well, it's Fresno. It's been recommended by several people to stay away from (what feels like) two-thirds of the city. Woodward Park? Gorgeous, but don't go there after dark. Especially on the weekends. South of Shaw Ave is to be avoided. In Phoenix and Tulsa, downtown is the place to go. It's rich in culture and entertainment. Here? We're told "there's never a reason to go downtown." Well, that's disappointing.
That being said, we love love LOVE the community we moved into. With all it has to offer, it makes up for the less-than-stellar reviews of Fresno. It's like our own little oasis in the desert. And there's the mountains; Yosemite, King's Canyon and Sequoia national parks all a relatively short drive away. So we'll dive into the Clovis culture, take advantage of all the outdoor activities and travel to see all California has to offer while we're here. Let our California Adventure begin!