Small Town Living: A by Urban Experience
For many individuals, the decision between living in a bustling city or a tranquil small town is a complex and deeply personal one. After years of experiencing both environments, I have made the conscious choice to prioritize small town living. This article explores my journey, highlighting the benefits and challenges of each environment and why I ultimately opted for the countryside.
Experiencing Both Urban and Rural Life
I grew up in Calgary, a suburb between two large cities, and spent the last 13 years in various small towns. The contrast between these two lifestyles is stark. The city offers access to amenities like fine dining, upscale shopping, and cultural attractions such as the opera and ballet. However, the daily grind of commuting, traffic, parking, and living in densely populated areas can be overwhelming. I often feel more relaxed and content when I return to my small town home.
The Drawings of Small Town Life
Living in a small town offers a stark contrast to the metropolitan frenzy. When my sister or I visit a city, we are quickly overstressed and eager to return to the serenity of our home. The idea of returning to the city voluntarily is not appealing. I desire a simpler life, free from the daily stresses of urban living.
My latest dream is to relocate to a property with a bit of land, ideally in a small town. I am yearning for a more laid-back pace of life, enjoying quiet evenings by the pond, watching my children or grandkids fish, and observing hawks glide overhead. The nearest neighbor is at least a quarter mile away, which is a significant change from the tight-knit community I left behind.
Blurring the Urban-Rural Divide
While small town living is my preference, the line between urban and rural has become increasingly blurred in many communities. In my current home near the metropolitan area, I live within a sprawling housing development of 1134 homes. Despite the luxury and amenities such a development offers, I am drawn to the simplicity of a small farm.
My neighborhood is a unique blend, located closer to rural farms than to the bustling city life. The fact that I can observe the birth of baby goats and lambs, a special baby donkey this year, from my yard is a significant perk. These small-town moments are priceless and provide a sense of community and connection to nature.
Urban Conveniences in the Countryside
Living in a small town does not mean sacrificing modern conveniences. I am within a short distance of a NYC commuter train stop, less than four miles from a ferry to Manhattan, and just a couple of miles from a main expressway. Yet, the simple life I desire is a constant tug at my heart. Even when nearby farms face the temptation of selling to sunbelt residences, I find myself profoundly saddened.
The decision to favor small town living is a testament to the balance I seek between urban amenities and rural simplicity. The quiet, the nature, and the close-knit community provide a quality of life that urban centers often fail to match. Small town living remains the choice that best aligns with my values and aspirations, even if the surrounding environment challenges this ideal.