you are correct about the beauty to be found in Calif. I miss the beaches, Yosemite, Sequira (however you spell it). There are definately pretty areas in Calif. However, the state has lost it's beauty (not physical) thru excess and liberal abuse. Democrats control the state senate (completely if I'm not mistaken). Gays have destroyed the school system and forced stupid cariculum (spellcheck needed here), and too many electoral votes. I could go on and on.
Idaho has clean air and low crime. We have problems here but nothing like Calif. There was a period in the mid 80's where there wasn't a murder in the Boise area for several years. Conservatism is a way of life here. Nothing funny about Calif. Nothing funny about Idaho. 100 degrees in the summer, 20-30's in the winters. Beats the crap you have to put up with in LA area, or San fran. any time.
Uh, I have two places here, and neither is in LA or SF. Hehehe.....