Dennis - Well said and I agree with you about our state, its a very nice place to live, I was born and raised here and wouldn't leave for another state. Like you I have every thing but snow within a 1 hour drive and have lived thru several earthquakes small and large with no damage, can't even think about what a tornado or hurricane or flooding would be like and don't want too deal with any of those.
The only point that was made was traffic but since I am long retired I can choose when to go out and I have seen other states with much worth traffic.
I don't think we will get a new gov. who will cut tax's but that doesn't bother me anyway since I pay no state income tax and since my driving doesn't amount to a lot of miles the new gas tax doesn't affect me that much either. Like you the kids and grand kids are a very good reason to stay.
It comes down to love it or leave it and I choose to love it and those that might be unhappy are welcome to leave and try to find a better overall place to li e.
Have to ask what kind of prices did you have to pay for you silver haul?
Walt