Missing Midwestern Comforts in Sunny San Diego

Next month will mark my fourth month living in SoCal. I cannot believe I have lived here only for that short amount of time. It feels as though the three of us made the trek out here so long ago. In this short amount of time, my husband and I have had some unique experiences, but there are so many more things to see, do and eat that I hope these next four months are just as awesome.

Despite my great experiences out here, there are still some Midwestern comforts that I miss. As much as I love typing in paragraph form, I feel like changing things up. I've compiled a list of Midwestern comforts that I hope, someday, find their way out here.

1. Peaches: Yes, I know peaches, nectarines and apricots can be purchased out here, but I am not paying $2.99 per pound.  

2. Dunkin' Donuts: For those of you who haven't made it back east, Dunkin' Donuts is a coffee shop chain that started in Boston. They serve piping hot coffee and awesome donuts. I don't eat donuts, nor do I really eat anything off of their menu, but I at least want the option of having one of their donuts.

3. Corn: Corn products are far too expensive out here. You know you're from the Midwest when you scoff at the two for a $1 price of corn at the grocery store. I am still convinced that two was upside down.  

4. The Midwestern Wave: Seriously, more people need to wave as they drive. I like being thanked for allowing cars to cut me off.

5. Steak 'n Shake: Reminiscent of diner dining, Steak 'n Shake specializes in handmade milkshakes and steak burgers. The food is typically hit or miss but the shakes are always awesome. Again, I don't eat this often, actually ever, but I at least want the option.

6. The Midwestern Accent: I always knew I spoke a bit differently than others; my vowels can get rather nasally sounding. This was made apparent while living in Pittsburgh. However, I am called out on my "accent" far too often out here. More people need to come out here and elongate the sound of their "A's."

7. Rain: Raining once every two weeks is not the end of the world. It's actually a part of the season we Midwesterners celebrate as spring.

8. Snow: This constant sunshine is annoying. You mean to tell me I will no longer be experiencing all four seasons in a week's time?

9. Ridiculous Festivals: You haven't lived until you've experience the Avon Heritage Duct Tape Festival. Yes, it is as awesome as it seems.  

10. Skyline Chili: Chili is best served on a plate of spaghetti with a mound of shredded cheese on top.  

11. Old Buildings: Visiting downtown is such an interesting experience. The buildings are clean and new. The cities are young. Coming from an area of old, industrial development, I came here expecting the same brownstone buildings caked with dirt and grime. The glass buildings, clean brick and fresh palm trees are so refreshing compared to the old skyscrapers that grace the three major cities I used to call home–Cleveland, Cincinnati and Pittsburgh.  

12. Sports Teams: Woah, you mean to tell me that "There's always next year," isn't the catch phrase of most of the teams out here? Mind is blown. What is comforting is that the is a Browns Backers bar.

13. Proximity to Florida: Yes, I may live close to the coast of America and yes, I also live very close to the original Disney theme park, however, Disney Land's got nothin' on the Magic Kingdom. I miss being able to book a relatively inexpensive outing to Florida.