Just another one for my hero list!
I envy the 40 acres and shop-- Urban and comfortable are nice! BUT SO LIMITING!
Both physically and imaginative!
One of the most versatile men I ever knew had only an 8th grade diploma! He could talk intelligently on any subject except SPORTS! He could ifx ANYTHING! Yes, I mean anything! He had no time for TV or such! Too busy making/fixing etc. He had ND licenses as Plumber- Electrician-Contractors and Pilot!
Your description of your way reminded me of him.