I love throwing stuff away/recycling. That stack of papers in the corner that isn't in the way? Realize they're three year old car or veterinary receipts that aren't relevant, and the room feels much nicer. Let me know if you have any questions on Wisconsin! It can be fairly urban (Milwaukee), city but not BIG city (Madison), seasonal resort (Rhinelander) or impossibly rural (anything north of Highway 10).
Thanks! I actually know Wisconsin rather well, as I've visited a few times. I kind of would have my heart set on a smaller town, like Wasau or Green Bay. Madison might be a bit pricey, but I like the town. That said, I think I'm kind of done with city living for a bit.
I grew up not far from Wausau, though I haven't done more than drive through it in fifteen years. Any of the smaller towns are nice, and the housing prices are pretty great. Southwest Wisconsin is really pretty, and since you're 45+ minutes to Madison's west side and over an hour to downtown, prices are still really good. Something like Dodgeville or Platteville southwest of Madison or Boscobel due west come to mind. These are pretty small. Platteville has a small state college. PM me any time if you have questions or anything. :)
Madison has a lot I like. As with anywhere, it has its faults, but there's a lot of good. Decent restaurant options, nice lakes, nice climate. The university and state government make it pretty stable. I noticed Monday there were a LOT of people out exercising, and I think we're a pretty active city. There are some nice trails in town, and the serious road bikers like the roads southwest of town (rolling hills). I'm not sure I'll live here forever, but I do like it.