So, you’ve decided to swap the city smog for the country fog.

Welcome to the countryside! Here’s a guide to help you navigate this big move; some key points to consider, and how to make the most of your new rural adventure. 

Driving: Time and Bad Weather

Country living often means longer drives to work, school, and shopping. Bad weather can make rural roads tricky to navigate. But don’t forget; this also means you have lots of time to get caught up on your favourite music and podcasts!

Tips:

Get a reliable car suited for rough weather.

Keep an emergency kit in your car.

Know alternative routes for when main roads are blocked.

Planning for Shopping and Errands

With fewer stores nearby, you might need to plan shopping trips carefully.

Tips:

Get organized: know what you’ll need and when. Or, keep a list of items you run out of. 

Consider bulk buying if possible.

Plan ahead to do all your errands at once. 

Fewer Services

In rural areas, services like garbage pickup, mail delivery, and fire departments may be less frequent or farther away.

Tips:

Look into your local waste disposal and recycling options.

Consider using a PO box for reliable mail delivery.

Equip your home with fire safety gear and have an emergency plan.

Preparing for Power Outages

Power outages can be more common, and if you have a well, no power means no running water.

Tips:

Invest in a backup generator.

Stock up on bottled water and non-perishable foods, it can take longer to restore power in rural areas.

Keep a good supply of flashlights and extra batteries.

Changes for Kids

Kids might be further from friends and have fewer extracurricular options nearby.

Tips:

Encourage participation in local clubs and activities.

Plan visits to friends in the city and host friends at home. Be prepared to do more driving. 

Explore new hobbies and outdoor activities.

Pets: More Freedom, More Risks

Dogs will love the space but might face more risks from wildlife and rough terrain.

Tips:

Supervise pets outside. Coyotes, snakes, and adventure await. 

Regularly check for ticks, burrs and injuries.

Install a sturdy fence to keep pets safe.

Embracing the Change

Despite the challenges, country living offers many rewards. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Stay Connected: Use technology to keep in touch with friends and family.

Get Involved Locally: Attend local events, join clubs, and volunteer.

Enjoy the Outdoors: Enjoy time spent outside for physical and mental well-being.

Plan Ahead: Be proactive in planning for daily needs and emergencies.

Moving from the city to the country is a grand adventure that can bring tranquility and simplicity to your life. With a bit of preparation and an open mind, you can fully embrace the beauty and peace of rural living. It’s worth it!

Saving energy at home doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive!

Small changes can add up to significant savings on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. Here are five simple strategies to make your home more energy-efficient.

1. Switch to LED Bulbs

One of the easiest and most effective ways to save energy is to replace traditional incandescent bulbs with LED (light-emitting diode) bulbs. LEDs use up to 80% less energy and last much longer than incandescent bulbs.

Benefits: Lower electricity bills, reduced replacement costs, and less frequent bulb changes.

Tip: Choose ENERGY STAR-rated LED bulbs for the best efficiency and performance.

2. Seal and Insulate Your Home

Proper sealing and insulation can significantly reduce the amount of energy needed to heat and cool your home. Check for drafts around windows, doors, and any other openings where air might escape.

Benefits: Improved comfort, lower heating and cooling costs, reduced strain on HVAC systems.

Tip: Use weatherstripping for doors and windows, and consider adding insulation to your attic and walls if necessary.

3. Utilize Natural Light

Make the most of natural light during the day to reduce the need for artificial lighting. Open curtains and blinds to let sunlight in, which can also provide some warmth during cooler months. Keeping curtains closed can also help keep your home cool in the hotter seasons. 

Benefits: Reduced lighting costs, natural heat in winter, improved mood and productivity.

Tip: Arrange furniture to take advantage of natural light and use light-colored paint to reflect more light throughout your home.

4. Use Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans can help circulate air, reducing the need for heating and cooling. If your fan is able to, In the summer, set the fan to rotate counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze. In the winter, set it clockwise to circulate warm air. 

Benefits: Enhanced comfort, reduced reliance on HVAC systems.

Tip: Turn off fans when you leave a room, as they cool people, not spaces.

5. Use Appliances Wisely

Be mindful of how and when you use appliances. Run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads and during off-peak hours. Avoid using appliances that generate heat when you are cooling your home, and consider using them more frequently during colder months. 

Benefits: Lower energy consumption, extended appliance lifespan.

Tip: Air-dry clothes whenever possible and use cold water for laundry to save even more energy.

Implementing these simple changes can make a big difference in your home’s energy efficiency. Not only will you save money on your energy bills, but you’ll also contribute to a healthier environment by reducing your energy consumption. Start with one or two of these tips and gradually incorporate more into your routine for maximum impact.