I haven't read all the posts yet, but I'm gonna mention my "adopted state"...we moved here 12 years ago...we didn't have to move...we moved here because we fell in love with the state!
West Virginia!!!
Most people think that WV'ians are hicks. But really? Just normal people living normal lives. WV'ians do love the outdoors...hunting, fishing, gardening. The pace is less hectic than some states...but that's the beauty of living here! The scenery is GORGEOUS! The winters can be brutal and the summers HUMID! But the mountains are STUNNING in all seasons!
I was a "flat-lander" for the first 38 years...but now? I feel nekked and vulnerable when I'm not surrounded by mountains! :D