To my love, the Midwest:

Look, we've had some amazing times, and I really tried to stay with you. After four months in Europe, missing you terribly, I'd decided that I wanted to stay with you forever. But you shut me out, dear. Look, I know you're going through some rough times, and I wanted to stick around to help you through them, but you refused. I tried to stay in Detroit, you wouldn't have me. Neither would Chicago. I didn't want to look elsewhere, really, but you gave me no choice. So I'm leaving behind your bitter winters, your hot-headed summers. I've been courted by Watsonville, CA and I'm leaving you. Watsonville promises me bike rides to the beach and weekend trips to San Francisco, endless 72 degree days and most importantly, a job where I get to talk about food all day and hang out with people who speak Spanish. I didn't want it to end like this, Midwest, but you gave me no choice. Please don't be too broken up, you will always have a special place in my heart. Some of the best years of my life have been with you, and I am eternally thankful for them, and for you. I'm sure we'll see each other on holidays. It's been lovely, but it's time to move on.

I'll miss you,

Ryanne