@Moon I agree it seems like life style changes are inevitable whether we follow the zeitgeist or not, but that doesn't have to be uncomfortable IMO. I think we often consider convenience and comfort to be the same thing, but they are sepate in my view. I think having to solve problems on your own or plan ahead is an inconvenience, but it doesn't mean discomfort. The only added discomfort I think I've noticed over the past nearly decade of working to be more self sustaining is having to break ice when it's well below freezing so my birds have something to drink.