Thanks for the welcome. We seem to be sharing a lot. I am located in the northern end of the Black Hills of South Dakota. I have about 2.5 acres of elongated land that has lots of Pine and Oak trees. A seasonal creek runs the length of the property. There is about an acre of grass that I use a JD riding lawn mower and bagger to keep maintained. There is at least three levels of undulating ground that has a terraced profile. This place is gorgeous and from the front porch of my log cabin I can watch the deer, wild turkeys, along with the occasional apperance of a mountain lion, and other creatures.
I am in the same situation right now. Lots of heat, an occasional thunderstorm, etc. I am sure I will get lots of time to practice with my new toys. At our age, the new experiences we have is what keeps us young. Currently I am thinking about buying a set of bolt on forks for the front bucket. I hope to build a platform on these and use the heighth to sand and seal the logs on my cabin. Sorry for the rambling note, but I do love to talk (write).