I'm a Canadian who fell in love with an American. Moving to the US to be with him meant giving up almost everything.

I upended my life and gave up my dream condo to move from Canada to California. I don't regret it.

Janine Canillas

When I got the keys to my Montreal condo in August 2022, it felt like I had arrived. My new place overlooking the Lachine Canal had marble counters, heated floors, and even a rooftop pool with skyline views.Still, after years of working hard to save up for my dream home and isolating during the COVID-19 pandemic, I had become overly attached to routines and the comfort of my condo. Most days consisted of evening walks with my dog, the same coffee order, the same canal view. My parents and friends nudged me back into the world and, reluctantly, I booked a trip to California.My simple plan was to escape winter for a few weeks, write by the ocean, and return home inspired. Instead, I fell in love.On my trip, I found a whirlwind romance that pushed me toward California

I found myself becoming attached to Venice Beach and a particular person I'd met there.

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