I do not think, actually, I know, I could not live on a ranch permanently. The kids and I just returned from a week's trip out to my dad's ranch in Washington.
We had a great time. The kids got to drive big tractors, 4x4s, and a variety of other farm equipment. They had some paying chores, which they actually liked. Frankie learned how to saddle and ride the horse she had gotten for her birthday, and Luci got to drive machines and use lots of tools. We spent time swimming in a small lake my dad had dug out and even went on a cattle drive. We really did have a lot of fun, and I have a few hundred pictures I can subject you all to.
As I said though, I couldn't live like that. I am definitely a city girl. I like the conveniences and amenities of city living. Even the kids appreciate when wild animals don't show up in the "house" at night. (Therein lies a good story for the first week of school!).
Frankie is happy to be home, but she is missing her horse and I'm sure we will head back there for a long weekend.
Visits and long vacations will be just perfect!