I have lived here for 43 years. I have seen a lot of changes in those years and continue to do so. The continual growing population and the rising cost of living. Open spaces being turned into housing developments. People having a difficult time finding a place to rent. The housing market values reaching six figures plus. The increasing numbers of the homeless.

On the other side, yes, Washington state is extraordinary beautiful in all of it natural beauty. Within an hour's drive, you can walk, hike, bike and ski to your heart's pleasure and content.

The only thing that I have a very difficult time with mentally is the "Dark Season". This is from November to early February, when there is a great loss of daylight and much darkness.

IMHO, this state is very conservative. If I didn't have family here, I would move to Oregon.