Ever Consider Moving to Michigan?

How about the Upper Peninsula of Michigan?

NO?

Well, give it some thought. We've got lots of water, woods, foreclosed homes, vacant storefronts and people getting by on part time jobs, multiple jobs and gardening, hunting and fishing.


And, if you're willing to forgo freeways and 24/7 shopping, this is the place to be. Better still, if you prefer gravel roads, dead end or two track access and homes that haven't been remodeled since the 1950's you'll have your pick. Seriously.

The way I look at it, sooner or later we'll all need to lower our standards. If you believe in peak oil, and you can't afford thousands and thousands for solar and wind, then a woodlot looks mighty attractive. If you're among the millions of people who are either unemployed or underemployed do you really think our "economy" - which relies on paper pushing instead of manufacturing based here - will recover? Do you really expect all those lost jobs will return? Sure, someday "new jobs" will be developed. So? Someday could be 20 years from now.

If you've lost interest in McMansions and malls and living in "the right neighborhood," maybe a simple framed home with a few acres, outbuildings and an old orchard would suit you.

In the late 60's and 70's lots of "back to the landers" flooded into the Upper Peninsula. Many still remain. They've carved out lives on old farms, cabins deep in the woods, and small homes near town. Through perseverance they've created good, satisfying lives. Visions had to be altered, changes adapted to and sacrifices made. Their contributions include enhancing the arts, establishing co-ops, preserving coastlines and woodlands, community building and charity - to name a few.

And yes, we have snow. This winter may enter the record books as the least snowfall in years.

But, the weather could be worse. We don't experience hurricanes or tornadoes. Flooding is minimal. Air conditioning isn't an absolute necessity.

There are plenty of negatives too. But you'll find them everywhere. And sometimes there's opportunity where others think there's none.

Besides, we'd like some self-sufficient, prepper/gardening neighbors to band together with!