Well you all are making me feel better about the obsticles of the Northeast (namely Nov. Jan., Feb, Mar. and April). I am still looking for the perfect environment for people and plants. Sinkholes do not sound like they are for me, and certainly hurricanes and tornadoes would not be my choice. I do not care so much about seasons. We have a condo at Killington, that I'd keep so that I could have a week of winter if I wanted it (and to keep the skiers in the family happy). We also have a family retreat on the coast of Maine if I were desperate for some seasonal action. So if anyone finds that perfect spot, let me know.
Clementine, thanks for sharing your experience and your solutions. We go to Maine in the summer for about a month, and the sailors in the family would be rather put out if we changed it to winter, but I am thinking that the rest of the family can go for an extended time (my son is there from late May through early September) and I can make it up for shorter visits. My husband can stay as long as he likes as well. My daughter is working in Boston this summer. With kids doing their own thing, I am not needed up there for the duration. My orchids need me, and I am more of a homebody anyhow.
Jim, I hope that your project remains sinkhole free!
