Well...what people from "outside" DON'T get is just how nice THIS part of the state is. Seriesly...it's nothing at ALL like the picture people have of Vermont - much more like NH, and rural NH at that. And with a house and a bunch of pets and a family that I'd have a hard time doing without...it'd be a major, major deal to go anywhere else. It'd take a near perfect situation to pull me away, especially with my job being one I enjoy so much.
It's just the lack of young people that gets to me. People tend to move to the cities after high school.
I have to admit I'd *rather* live in a place like you describe, than in even a town like I'm moving to. But the lack of large bookstores in your area would drive me mad.
You know I know it's nice. And I know it's home. So I know how you feel tied there. But I also sense (and read) your frustrations sometimes.
There's a lot to consider and it might be best for you to stay just where you are. All I'm saying is don't rule out relocating.