Name: Tiana Thurgood

From: Bountiful

To: Grantsville

The longing for country life is what attracts many newcomers to the Tooele Valley. For some it's the small-town feel, for others it's the close-knit communities, and for Tiana Thurgood and her family those factors were considered. But the most important thing they were looking for was a wide-open space to raise their horses.

The family moved to Grantsville from West Bountiful in the summer of 2005, settling into a house with horse property.

"We had horse property in Bountiful, but it wasn't on our own land," Thurgood said. "Now it's right out the door."

There is always something to miss about an old home, and Bountiful is no exception.

"It was nice to have the choice of restaurants and everything was right there," she said. "The mall was close with so many options. If I could add one thing to Tooele County, it would definitely be an Olive Garden."

Despite missing the variety of Bountiful, Thurgood has enjoyed her time spent in Grantsville.

"I like how it's laid back," she said. "It's just this cute little hometown. Everyone is so nice."

Another thing she loves about Grantsville is the roads aren't as busy.

"There's less traffic," she said. "I hated driving in Bountiful because the traffic was always so hectic."

compiled by Natalie Tripp

If you're a newcomer or know of a newcomer who'd like to share the story of why they moved to Tooele County, please contact Sarah Miley at (435) 882-0050 or via e-mail at swest@tooeletranscript.com.