Though I haven't left Montana I understand about the trees, turkeys, lupine and coyotes. Oh I miss them! Now I'm on a tiny lot, after also consolidating bathroom supplies :) and consider the tradeoffs worth it. No downed branches, needles, pine cones, fear of cougars, wood hauling, ash shoveling. And the good things will still be there to visit, waiting to share with you their scent and breeze and soft sounds. Sitting under a tree someday with your cup of tea you'll be able to tell them all about the news sights and sounds you experienced since you last visited.
You get it. They become a part of the whole experience and anchor the sense of place. But yes, there are always trade-offs. I forgot to mention the unending raking of pine needles and the messy job of shoveling ash. I will be glad to be rid of those chores. Your image of sitting under a tree with a cup of tea, catching up with my old friends is truly lovely. Thank you for that. I wish you the same.
Though I haven't left Montana I understand about the trees, turkeys, lupine and coyotes. Oh I miss them! Now I'm on a tiny lot, after also consolidating bathroom supplies :) and consider the tradeoffs worth it. No downed branches, needles, pine cones, fear of cougars, wood hauling, ash shoveling. And the good things will still be there to visit, waiting to share with you their scent and breeze and soft sounds. Sitting under a tree someday with your cup of tea you'll be able to tell them all about the news sights and sounds you experienced since you last visited.
You get it. They become a part of the whole experience and anchor the sense of place. But yes, there are always trade-offs. I forgot to mention the unending raking of pine needles and the messy job of shoveling ash. I will be glad to be rid of those chores. Your image of sitting under a tree with a cup of tea, catching up with my old friends is truly lovely. Thank you for that. I wish you the same.