My distraction
We, my eegit and I, have finally made a move. We had been looking for change (job/state) but fell to the pull of more money. Money might not be the answer to everything but it still gets a passing grade.
So we'll remain in place, sort of, moving one city over, and buying a home.
Closing set for early May.
We expected it to take far longer to purchase a home but things have been moving very fast. Too fast in a lot of ways. All our bases are covered but still...head spinning.
He, my eegit, wanted to gift me with a house for our upcoming wedding anniversary (28th). He'll miss it by a few days as closing will fall just after that date. Oh, well - can't have everything.
So I've been stressed out and a bit (more than a bit) singularly focused and closed off.
This stands at the center of the property - 3.5 acres. The oak takes center stage framed by the windows of a great room at the back of the house. Old farmhouse - literal farmhouse. Over the years the original home went from 2 rooms to 10 rooms.
Yes, at the very back there are train tracks and then lots of woods. Rural area - but it means lots more wildlife and that's a good thing for me.
Wisteria Lavender...
...blankets a corner that will eventually be part of a butterfly/bee garden. I hope to turn that corner into a home for pollinators complete with bee houses (Mason bee) and flowers that allow for and encourage butterfly growth in all stages. (nectar plants/adults and host plants/caterpillars)
And, of course, hummingbirds. 
Hoping all goes well for everyone,
Solly Mack
= new reply since forum marked as read
20 plus years of army life, moving from state to state and country to country...this doesn't seem quite real yet.
The birds, the deer...everything.
We looked at a brand spanking new home - fully equipped with Google home - but my heart kept going back to that farmhouse.
A sense of peace and well being is worth the extra drive. I hope - since he will be doing the longest drive.
The daisies are 8 years old. The other two around 4 years old. Sitting in their temporary containers and doing well.
Might be a good sign.
They want to go with you. 
I'm hoping.
Much appreciated!
That just looks like a little bit of paradise to me. I'm wishing you many happy, contented and serene years in your new home.
The photos are wonderful! And your view of the oak tree.......amazing.
Enjoy, and happy anniversary!
I did fall in love with the oak. It's not the only one but it is the largest and oldest one on the land.
and wishing you all the very, very best!
Save a spot under the oak tree for my next major picnic!
What a wonderful spot you have found. Photography heaven for you. Critters and trees and flowers and serenity in your own back yard! Happy upcoming anniversary and may you have many more years together in your new home.
when choosing potential places.
That and no nearby neighbors. I know that sounds bad but army living means living on top of each other with no real privacy.
Not saying I want to run around naked but if I did...I could soon. (Hopefully)
Still doesn't feel real yet. Maybe I'm accustomed to military life - where plans change on a dime. Always have to be fluid and ready to change at a moment's notice. That life comes with more than its fair share of disappointments. Rewards, too...still.