Country pleasures!!

When we first moved to our current location, about 7 years ago, I glibly remarked that this was probably the closest to the country we would ever live. We back up to a big canyon and see the Cleveland National Forest across the canyon--above a few houses. Very quiet and nice!
Recently, however, I am beginning to believe we do indeed live in the country. Why do I say that, you may ask? Well, it started a few weeks ago while I was working in the garage after dark--after it cooled down a little. I stepped inside for a few minutes, and when I came back to the garage, a huge (it had to have been at least 50 pounds or more!) raccoon went scooting out of the garage! We had never seen raccoons up here before.
Then last night, some friends stopped by, and as they were coming in the front door, a bird flew in. We spent the next 20-30 minutes trying to get it out!! Crazy!
Then tonight, I came in to work on the computer and I started smelling some serious skunk smell. And the window wasn't even open. I went to see if Lonnie was noticing it--and as I walked down the hall, it smelled like the skunk was in the house. We raced around closing all the windows and turned on the fans to try to get the smell out of here!! Seriously, my eyes are still burning. I have never smelled skunk so strong! I think a family of them has taken up residence in my yard. I was afraid to walk out there tonight--super crazy!
So I guess I am saying, even though I live in the middle of a very populated area, it seems I really do live in the country!! Now if I just had a red barn--I've always wanted one of those things!!