Check out Minnesota. We are a friendly state. We have all four seasons - marvelous springs, sultry summers, beautiful autumns and bone chilling winters (but not too bad the last few years). We are known for our Minnesota Nice, which we are and the cost of living is pretty darn good. Good bargains around here! We, too, are retired, at least my husband is, since 1993 - we wives never retire - and enjoy our state. The lakes up north, Ely, Silver Bay, Lake Mille Lacs. Too many to mention - 10,000 of them, you know!~ Actually, there are more than 10,000! Not to mention the famous LUTEFISK!Please to google Lutefisk Lament. It is one of the funniest things I have ever heard. It is very popular during the holiday season. Thank you for letting me brag about my state of Minnesota. Edie