Letters to the Editor

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I'd like to raise some kids in a real community. Does the Badger State have what the Golden State lacks?
  • Short answer: yes. But another question: have you gone in winter or summer?

    If you feel like you're stagnating in SoCal, then now is definitely the time to go. Things aren't going to be getting any cheaper, and the quality of life isn't going to suddenly improve. And certainly before you have any kids.

    As for Cary's other advice, don't take it too much to heart. Basically, you have to decide what kinds of things are important to you and what aren't. If good coffee, be it espresso or whatever, is important to you, then make sure it's there. If a certain kind of culture, maybe theatre or music, is important to you, then look for that. You're looking to make a change, not send yourself into exile or a witness protection program. You don't need to completely reject every part of your previous life. If it happens that a lot of your neighbors end up being former Californians, then so be it. You're all there because you wanted to do something new and that's as good a foundation for beginning a friendship as any.

    The other big point to remember is that for a good chunk of the year, the much of the Midwest features weather that can kill you. Now, if you've been out there during those times and you're fine with that, then good. But before you commit to anything, you might want to take a trip out during the coldest and hottest parts of the year. If the Norman Rockwell allure is still there when going out improperly dressed could mean death then you'll do fine.