Report: Utah named the best state in the nation

Yes, but: Despite encompassing five national parks, the state placed 46th for its natural environment, which measures pollution.

• Utah ranked 48th on equality for its gender pay gap and educational attainment disparities by race.

Kim's flashback: I was born in Los Angeles and reluctantly moved to Payson when I was 11 years old.

• After surviving my first frigid winter and observing a lack of people of color who shared my culture, my mission was to leave Utah and return to my sunny home state.
• Post-college, when an opportunity arose to move to California for a reporting gig, I didn't hesitate to move.

But, but, but: After two long, pandemic-tinged years, I missed elements of Utah that I never appreciated before, like the snow-peaked mountains in the background, the proximity to outdoor recreation and affordable living (especially compared to California standards).

• I found my way back and have enjoyed my time here ever since.

The bottom line: While most businesses are closed Sundays, and I can't buy spirits at the grocery store, it's a small price to pay for living in the best state in the country.