In a world full of bustling cities and crowded neighborhoods, there's something special about finding solace in the place we call home. Amidst the chaos of daily life, taking a moment to appreciate the simple joys of our surroundings can bring a sense of contentment and gratitude. Whether it's the majestic mountains towering in the distance or the serene tranquility of a nearby lake, there's no denying that where we live plays a significant role in shaping our experiences and memories.
For many of us, our love for where we live extends far beyond mere geography; it's woven into the fabric of our daily lives, influencing everything from our morning routines to our weekend adventures. From the vibrant community spirit that fills the air during local festivals to the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds us at every turn, there's no shortage of reasons to celebrate the unique charms of our hometowns.
Here are 5 Things We Love About Where We Live
Fresh Mountain Air
There's no denying that the air we breath is important and vital to our health in many ways. There's just something about the mountain air being so fresh and clear, free from all the pollutants that is found near cities, urban areas, and major metro areas.
I love the air in all the seasons up here at Yeehaw Ranch, and especially in the Summer time. The cool air in the morning as the sun is rising over the mountains just to the east of us over the ridge to heat up the day. And even better is sitting around the fire on a summers night to cool down from the day and enjoy the peace and good company (and of course, s'mores).
There's just something about the fresh mountain air up here, cool mountain breeze, clear starry nights, and good company. There's just something homie to it.
Peaceful Seclusion
People ask us a lot if we like living far away from everything. We also get comments about if we get snowed in or a storm hits or the power goes out, what would you do? Well, we have thought about all those things as well - and yes it is still a thing we love about being up here!
Yes, we are "far" away from "civilization" but really we are only 15 minutes from the closest gas station/convenient store and hardware store and 25 minutes from the nearest grocery store. A drive to either of our parents or siblings homes will be anywhere from 35 - 90 minutes. So in a way we are far, but also in another way we aren't. To us it's a perfect blend of being away from all the hustle and bustle of the world like traffic and living on top of each other and still knowing what's going on and not being total hermits.
But I'll be the first to admit that living where we do presents its challenges. The main challenge has to do with the weather - we get some wacky, downright crazy storms here. From getting over 100" of snow in five days this year (2024) or getting crazy wind and rain storms that cause our house to creak - we get it all. And we have gotten snowed in where we couldn't leave - at least we didn't want to because the road to our house is steep and dirt and if it's not plowed and groomed before we leave during the winter we likely won't make it back up. And then me, Kyle, will have to hike to the top in whatever clothing I'm wearing at the time and get the plow and spend 30min-1hr plowing. Yes, it has happened plenty of times before.
That's why I bought a tractor with a big five foot snow blower on the rear! Since then we've been fine and haven't really had any problems. The power goes out just like anywhere else and we have food storage and plan to grow more of our own food and create more off-grid power sources in the future.
Our Expansive Property
This is probably our favorite. Just the fact that we have so much space between any of our neighbors and we can go on decently long walks just on our property alone is an amazing feeling.
Our property is 7.5 acres perched up on the ridge of a hill on a mountain-side. The top lot is pretty flat naturally but the bottom 5 acres is sloped pretty good. The nice thing is we don't really have to worry about flooding as all the water will flow down hill from us. The not-so-great thing is any type of building we do we have to level the ground and in the winter our steep driveway is not fun at all.
Other than those main issues we love everything about our property. It's so fun for our kids to watch them go on their adventures and explore, especially since we got a dog. She also loves to just be let loose to roam about just like she would if she were out in the wild. It is such a wonderful place and so great to raise kids especially in these times we live.
Outdoor Recreation
This is something we haven't taken full advantage of but we plan to. We are located smack dab in the middle of so many recreational areas and activities - it honestly might be unmatched especially for the price point for entry in this area.
All within 20 miles we have access to thousands of miles of UTV/ATV/Snowmobile tracks and trails, three of the top ski resorts in the country, two expansive reservoirs, and as many hiking trails as you can imagine. We also have amazing casting and fly fishing areas as well in either of the two reservoirs or the South Fork of the Ogden river. The list definitely is longer with more obscure activities but you get the sense - SO MANY THINGS TO DO!
Opportunity to Build a Family Legacy & Community
One of my favorites for sure because I find myself thinking about this almost everyday - it's my dream and my day dream.
I can't help but think about one or two generations beyond my years where this land will still be in our family. It'll be built out as a gathering place for everyone to come and enjoy, to get together and just have fun, hang out, play games, share laughs, cries and tears, share stories of the good the bad and the ugly, and reminisce about the past. I fantasize a bit about those future generations thinking of the family that started it all and thanking us from their hearts that we bought, improved, and kept it in the family forever.
Building a legacy like that as a family and being known as the founders and creators of this amazing property brings a huge sense of pride, ownership, and just pure joy to my heart and soul. It definitely feels like this is part of my purpose.
BONUS: If a Zombie Apocalypse Occurs, Our Property Will Be a Home Base for Friend and Family to Gather and Defend
I'm mostly joking here but also being serious! If we experience cataclysmic events, such as an earthquake, tornado, or zombies, our family and friends will have a place to come to in the mountains to have the high-ground and be together in one of the safest places to be.
Thanks for reading and leave a comment with a few things you love about where you live. You can also let me know if I missed anything about our property that you'd thought I would have included - or just let me know I'm crazy!
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