“It almost feels like a really lazy solution to the problems that come up”
More like mathematical shorthand than a lazy solution. We can describe the phenomenon with the same math that works to describe particles, so we use it. Same as with “pseudoparticles” like phonons.
Personally, I think in the end we’ll figure out that the “real” particles are exactly the same, just emergent phenomenon of wave/field mechanics that we can describe as particles in certain situations for expediency.
That actually makes a lot of sense to me as well. I think the distinction bugs me more than anything; as I doubt nature does any such thing. That we're seeing any distinction just tells me we're likely missing part of that puzzle. Still fascinating to me to consider the level of complexity and persistence that can be achieved with the random variations and fluctuations at the quantum level. The smoothing that must take place at the macro levels to support things like planetary formation is incredible. Everything around us appears to be an average of averages of randomness, yet it all works predictably.