Moving to Mount Vernon area (Seattle, Vancouver: crime, theater, camping)

[rollbar74]

My family and I are moving from Texas to the Mount Vernon area. I know people think that all Texans are close minded, but we are not. We are trying to get away from that. My question is, how do people there react to newcomers?

[allforcats]

Originally Posted by rollbar74

how do people there react to newcomers?

Probably pretty much the same way as in other areas of western Washington -- with interest in you, warmth, friendly welcomes, helpfulness, and some emotional distance. It's a good idea to ask them what they think before stating opinions about things, unless you're asked. People here tend to be independent, so not overly chatty or overly generous with invitations. Friendships take time and care to develop. Anyone who's willing to adapt and be patient will have fun. Welcome!

[yukiko11]

A lot of people who live in Western WA are from other places in the US so the diversity is a cross section of the country.
Those who were born and raised here are a little more reserved. Many are descended from the original pioneers who settled the West in the 1800's/ They are just as polite, helpful and friendly as everyone else, but probably, they would like you to join in their activities before you suggest they make changes to their traditions. Everyone here is helpful. If you get a flat tire, someone will stop and help you, if you are carrying something heavy, you will have help. No one cuts you off when you are driving and at an intersection the other car will always wave you thru or you will wave them. Anger , fear and crime are at very low levels here. This is basically a farming community, but all the conveniences are available. In the spring when 1000's of acres of tulips bloom, the whole community celebrates for about 3 weeks with great family activities.
Mt Vernon, has for many years been listed as one of the best places to raise a family. I am sure you will enjoy it. You will be really impressed when every few years the Skagit river that runs through town threatens to flood and absolutely every man woman and child turn out to sandbag the old downtown area. When that happened, my employer about 15 miles south of MT Vernon, supported the effort by allowing the employees who lived there to take the day or two off with full pay. That is a sense of community that is not matched in most places in the US.
If you have cultural interests, you will also be surprised at living half way between two of the most cultural diverse cities I have every experienced, Seattle, WA and Vancouver, Canada. There is no end to the music, theater, food and artistic scene in these two cities. When you get here, you will apply for a special drivers license that allows you to cross the border at will any time without a passport.
Recreation includes skiing, boating, kayaking, fishing, hunting, bicycling, camping and hiking. All within 3-15 miles from Mt Vernon.

[angelagardner]

Agreed, I grew up in Sedro Woolley and it's a "good old boy" town for the most part but people are freindly, even though they may not "look" friendly, they are. What I mean by that is, for example my dad, he is a great guy but looks like a big biker dude who doesn't smile unless spoken to, although he is a teddy bear. If you get out and about, introduce yourself to people, etc...you will do fine. If not, then come to Bellingham---we are friendly up here also.