Merced, CA
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5/17/2015
When I first arrived in Merced, 8 years ago, I was disappointed in my neighbors. But, they all got foreclosed on and moved. The new neighbors are ALL employed, happy people, who enjoy life. It made such a difference in my outlook of Merced. It's like the city's composition changed before my eyes. Took 8 years, but I really love Merced. The ethnic food at restaurants is pretty outstanding. I ride a bike, not because I'm homeless, but to save oxygen for breathing. And I ride a bike to stay in shape. And my bike is a 23 speed with electronic shifters which cost more than I care to say. My husband got into biking after moving to Merced and owns 3 bikes now. All bikes were purchased at the local bike shop, Kevin's Bikes. There are local bike teams you can join and there are hills and bigger hills you can climb here. The countryside and small towns to ride to are beautiful. The wildlife and flora on the way are spectacular. I don't get bored here because they have so many clubs you can join and get involved with that it isn't funny. There's the local Garden Club, Master Gardeners, Genealogy, Friends of the Library, Camera Club, Habitat for Humanity, church groups, cooking clubs, book clubs, archery clubs, etc.. I'm a real gardener, and to the lady who said Merced is all clay ; " Lady, that is the best soil in the world. Just add compost and sand. Voila, you have the perfect media for fruits and veggies." I grow everything in my little postage stamp yard, wine grapes, stone fruits, pineapple, celery, beets, cauliflower, radishes, tomatoes, cucumbers, pumpkins, carrots, peppers and tomatillios, onions, garlic, and melons. This place is amazing. We are in a water crisis right now. But, I have my washer hooked up to a hose to water my lawn, bucket the gray water from my shower and dishes to my garden, and just bought two pickle barrels from Atwater Feed to catch rain water. I'm working with Mother Nature to make my stay here in Merced last. Of course, I grew up in Vacaville, went to college at UCDavis, and love the valley heat. So, I'm kind of a local girl. I do love it here.
Mi | Merced, CA