My Hometown: Bismarck, North Dakota

Bismarck, North Dakota

Population: 61,217

Fun fact: On February 17, 2007, the still-standing world record for the most snow angels made at one time was set by 8,962 people on the Capitol Grounds.

Our Bismarck Family: Becky Jones Mahlum and her husband, Mike, with Shiny, 15, and Sedalia, 12 (Johan, 18, not pictured)

I grew up 200 miles from Bismarck, but since my dad was a state legislator we spent a good deal of time here when I was a kid. It was easy moving to the city for a job as a TV reporter after college since I was familiar with the area. Mike was working for the state in energy conservation when we met through my sister. The top-notch schools and friendliness of locals were the deciding factors in our decision to raise our family here.