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If you’ve lived in a big city all your life you’re in for some real surprises when you move to the country. Sure, it’s quieter and more peaceful but that’s just the beginning. Moving to the country can mean big changes in your life.
After living in the city you’re probably used to walking to the nearest store. Not so in the country. Many miles removed from everyone, you’ll have to get in your vehicle and drive, sometimes for miles and miles. There are convenience stores located on the edges of town but after hitting the rural scene they disappear as well. If you happen to find a little country store nearby the prices will be high and the selection low. Some items that don’t sell often may have been sitting on the store shelves for quite some time. On the other hand you can often find fresh picked fruit and vegetables at these country stores - a rarity in town. Try to do all the shopping for a week at a time rather than going several times a week. This will cut down on gas expenses as well as wear and tear on your car.
If you’ll be driving from country to city for work be sure and allow plenty of extra time. Try making the trip and clocking the time to give you an idea of how long it will take to make the journey each day.
Make it a point to learn where the nearest hospital, fire department and other important places are in relationship to your new home. There are no “Hospital This Way” signs out in the country.
In the city you probably rented an apartment or small house where the landlord or maintenance guy did the repairs. If you own the new country home you’ll be responsible for all of that. In addition many homes in the country come with acreage that will have to be mowed and trimmed regularly. The upside to the acreage is that, if you’re interested, you can plant a large garden. Gardening is not only health and relaxing but saves you a bundle on food purchases.
People in large cities are often known for aloofness with many neighbors not even acknowledging each other. In the country don’t be surprised if your neighbor shows up on your door step with home baked goodies. In the country there’s a more laid-back approach to life than the hustle and bustle of a city. Many people sit on their porch in rocking chairs for relaxation. Since you have few neighbors in the country most of them know each other and make efforts to be friendly and sociable.
No more walking the dog when you move to the country - unless you want to. If you were even permitted to own a pet where you lived before, you were required to walk him several times a day for bathroom purposes, at least. In rural areas you can simply put up a fence in the back yard to contain the animal.
The peace and quiet is sometimes deafening in the country. If you’re used to the noise of traffic and people when you sleep you might think you’re going crazy the first few nights in your new place. It’s not unusual to hear dead silence in the country. Or the night might be marked with the sounds of bullfrogs, crickets and other creatures of the night. In daylight don’t be surprised to see squirrels, racoons, deer or other wild animals depending upon the area in which you live. Don’t try to interact with them as they are still dangerous creatures but enjoy the view when they pass through your yard.
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