Living in San Francisco for the past 15 years, I have had many experiences that are exotic, unusual and unique. Now that I'm leaving, I know that I will savor many memories of this city by the bay.
When I tell people that I am leaving, some of the responses I get are:
1. But you are such a San Francisco woman!
2. I never thought you'd leave the city!
3. You are going to miss it and come back.
4. I wish I could leave this urban jungle too.
Am I a San Francisco woman? Yes, I have lived here longer than anywhere else and felt most at home here. I don't think I really "fit-in" anywhere, however, and don't really want to! San Francisco has been an adventure and I've made some wonderful friends. I have connections here that I want to maintain so I'll be back to visit. Often.
I'm moving to Santa Rosa and look forward to exploring this lush and sunny paradise with soil and climate that allows for even the growth of tropical fruits like guava. I'll miss the urban stories I often find in San Fransisco but I also need change to keep feeding my imagination and to force me to grow as a person.
I'm taking 32+ boxes of books with me. I'll finally have time to read some of them, now that I'm removing myself from the endless distractions available in this city. I love San Francisco but I am taking my heart with me because I'm leaving to be with my boyfriend whose career change is leading him to Santa Rosa.
