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Living In Wyoming. Ten things I have learned from living in Wyoming for over 40 years.
Hi, I’m Alisha Collins with Remax the Group and the Alisha Collins Real Estate Team. And I’m going to drop a little knowledge on you and share 10 things I have learned from living in Wyoming for over 40 years. I can’t really call them a top 10 because I really can’t decide which is the most important to know. So in no particular order, here we go.
Number one, buy a really great winter coat. And I mean, a really great winter coat. If you aren’t from around here, you might think that every day from October through April is below zero. Thankfully, that just isn’t true. But there are going to be some days that you will be so very thankful to have something to keep you warm and dry as the temperature drops and the snow flies.
On that note, number two on my list is that if you don’t like the weather, just wait five minutes, the weather’s going to change. There have definitely been times that I have worn sandals and short sleeves to work, but was wishing I had my snow boots by the time the day was done and I was ready to go home. Everyone I know has had to use both the heater and the air conditioning in their car on the same day on more than one occasion every year.
Number three, the Wyoming wind rule. Do not, I repeat, do not open two car doors at the same time when the wind is blowing. You will surely regret it if you do. The contents of your car will be stirred up or completely gone faster than you can say, “Whoops.” Taking turns is an important lesson in life, especially when it comes to getting out of your car in the Wyoming wind. Along with this, you’ll probably want to learn to park with the front of your car facing into the wind. That way, when the wind gusts, it’s more likely to smoosh you than allow your door to fly out of your grasp and bang into your car or the person next to you. Bonus hint, considerate folks return their empty grocery carts in the cart corral or back inside, so the wind doesn’t turn them into a car seeking ground missile. Bonus hint number two, I have learned that even when you don’t think it will, the Wyoming wind does eventually stop. When it does, make sure you get out, enjoy and appreciate it because let’s be honest, sometimes it takes a while before it stops again.
Next up, number four, cold weather can actually be a lot of fun. Sure, when the pesky wind is blowing and the snow is swirling and the ice is all around, it can be difficult to see the fun. But oh, there is so much fun to be had in the snow, traditional backyard winter fun such as sledding, building snowmen and having a snowball fight with your family or even your neighbors is great. Then there are the more adventurous and fun activities like snowshoeing, snowmobiling, Alpine skiing, Nordic Track and even ice fishing. All of that work shoveling your driveway and dealing with the not so great roads is completely worth it when you discover your winter fun. And remember, you don’t have to pick just one thing. You can do everything if you wanted.
Number five, Wyoming does actually have four seasons. Sometimes we joke that we only have two seasons, winter and construction, but I am happy to report we really do get to enjoy all four seasons. And a huge bonus, there are plenty of outdoor activities on every season with something to suit just about everyone.
Which is a great lead into my number six, appreciate the wide open spaces. Take the time to enjoy all the wonder that Wyoming has to offer. For example, right in our own backyard, Casper Mountain is absolutely gorgeous. I think sometimes we are around such incredible beauty and yet we take it for granted. The mountains, the prairies, the rivers, the streams, lakes, and reservoirs, they are all around us and here for us to enjoy. Wide open spaces and the beauty all around, yep.
That also defines my number seven. Make sure you see the stars. With the low population of even our larger cities, you can see quite a few stars by simply stepping out your front door. But what I am talking about is really taking the time to look and see the stars. Head out of town, away from the lights of the city, and just take a moment or two or 10 to look up at the immense glory that is the Milky Way. It’s breathtaking.
Now number eight, find something you love to do outdoors and make a point to do it. I know it is hard to make the time in the course of our busy lives, but you really do need to take the time to do the things you love. This year we have been kayaking at the lakes and the river, and we have had so much fun.
Number nine, even if you’ve never owned a horse before you can have one. I owned horses growing up, but I never really got into riding and ranch sorting until I was an adult. There are people everywhere that will help. There are people everywhere that will help give you instructions. I have met some of my best friends riding horses in the last 17 years. There are people that give horse riding lessons to kids and adults and teach you how to take care of horses. Horses are one of the biggest blessings in my life.
And number 10 on my list of things I’ve learned from living in Wyoming, the people are amazing. There is always someone willing to help when someone needs it. From the monetary to the physical, Wyomingites generous to those in need and are even willing to pull cars out of snow drifts when the need arises. The people here are willing to do it all. Strong and resilient are defining characteristics of those that choose to live here. And I am glad to count myself amongst them.
So there you have it, 10 things I have learned from living in Wyoming for over 40 years. Your list may be different from mine, but I’d love to hear what you have to say. If you already live here or you’re considering moving here, I would love to meet you. Whatever your list is, you can learn more about living in Wyoming If you subscribe to my channel here. I would love to help you find the home of your dreams. Remember, we want you to love where you live. See you soon.