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Sometimes on newcomer sites, people always try to paint a picture of Utopia about the city you are moving to. I hope with our blogs and the kind of content we provide on NewtoBakersfield.com, you can get an honest perspective on what life is like here in Bakersfield.

To be honest, there are some things I love about living here, and some things I really hate. But overall, I think it's a great place to live!

Here are some things I wish someone would have told me about so that I could have been better prepared:

• The Fog: When I was moving here, the only comment I got about Bakersfield from people is "It's soooo hot in the summer." Yes, that's very true. But no one warned me about the winter! This winter it was mild, but typically we are filled with what is called tule fog. It is literally the thickest fog in the world. It's like you are stuck inside a giant cotton ball. It's a bit scary to drive in and I find it depressing. I understand that since our population is growing, the amount of fog we get within the city is actually decreasing.

• No-Burn Days: For me, one of the main benefits to moving to Bakersfield was to be able to afford to buy a house with a fireplace. I had no idea of the air quality issues Bakersfield has and that the air quality board has many "no-burn days" during the winter. That gray Bakersfield day that was just perfect for a fire in the fireplace, it's not allowed.

• Bakersfield Mix: Maybe this is just because I am obsessed with having a perfect lawn. I had no idea how to care for a garden in this kind of climate- super hot summer and freezing winter. The saving grace for my garden and lawn has been Gardener's Supply on Landco Drive. They have grass seed called Bakersfield Mix that stays perfectly green year-round! Don't buy grass seed anywhere else!

What are some things you have found out about Bakersfield that you wish someone would have told you beforehand? Post a comment!