A year and a half ago, I made the bold decision to leave my beloved Los Angeles neighborhood and start a new chapter in San Francisco. The move was intimidating, with only my rescue cat, Kit, as my companion in a quiet apartment overlooking Golden Gate Park. The Bay Area’s beauty left me in awe, but the process of building a social life from scratch proved to be more challenging than I had anticipated, especially in the midst of the pandemic.
Despite the difficulties, one constant source of support and connection has been the community that has formed around this newsletter. The feedback, suggestions, and stories that readers like you have shared with me have been like drops of joy in my inbox. Together, we have delved into California’s rich culture, creating playlists, reading lists, and movie recommendations that capture the essence of the Golden State.
We have explored the unique California psyche, discussing how we navigate through disasters and find comfort in quirky roadside attractions that signal we are almost home. Through your emails, I have had the privilege of learning about your personal experiences in California – how your families came to settle here, what you love about your neighborhoods, and the places you cherish visiting during the summer.
As I bid farewell to my role as the leader of this newsletter, I want to express my gratitude by sharing some of the most touching love letters I have received from readers like you. Your words have been a source of inspiration and connection, making me feel like I am having a conversation with dear friends.
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