I think that’s about the size of it.

This self-sufficiency angle has another side to it, also. We can’t all do everything, right? So neighbors and communities will have to organize, show each other how to do things, figure out who can do what best, what to trade for food and services. This could actually end up being a really good thing.

Taos hasn’t turned out to be a “disappointment,” not at all, but it’s a very harsh place to live compared to gentler climes, and we’re both in our 60s, which means another relocation would wipe out what little we have in the bank. Don’t think I haven’t thought about it, but geez: after nine years here, we finally have some new friends… Life can be very, very good here, too, if you’re slotted into the right living situation.

You’re also not the first person to say that one can’t eat scenery. However, with the sands of time running out on my ever-more-ancient body, I feel I need as many majestic mountains as I can get.

The story isn’t over, by any means. I can’t see moving back to MD, all we had is gone, and hell, I like it here. MD is also the original source of the burning rage — we used to live just a few miles from where my father grew up — a place I might revisit someday to knock over a few tombstones! What does still pull me are small rural towns in the quiet middle of the country, although there are plenty of those in NM as well. Frankly, I think “moving” at this stage is more of an avoidance mechanism than anything else, so let there be mountains…

Its never too late to resurrect those old skills. So you’re looking for a new place to rent – look for one where you can raise some chickens, grow some veges and stockpile some food and water. I’m in the process of transforming my backyard to a garden that will grow preservable foods. I may sneak in a couple of chickens if I can figure a way to keep the neighborhood cats away. I’m also going to learn to hearth cook and wash clothes without electricity. Read Crisis Preparedness. It’s a great guide on how to get started. Stock up now while the supply still exists. Do you still own the 2.5 acres in Maryland? Move back. Sounds like Taos has turned out to be a major disappointment – other than the scenery – which is not edible. Or maybe I’m just jealous that when I look out my window in Oklahoma all I see is suburbia rather than majestic mountains. Keep the great photos coming; your readers really enjoy them.