I found it strange at first and the privacy was nice but now love the sun.

I get it! We lost one to lightning. When the tree pieces were sitting there I felt like I had to thank them for their service, Marie kondo style, and say a little prayer. We planted a redbud which I’m excited about so that helped. Agree with PPs that you should lean into the replanting process.

I agree that leaning into the opportunity is the way to go! I fantasize about having a clean canvas, all tilled up and ready to go. I'd do a birch grove with red-twig dogwood and some smaller flowering shrubs for four-season interest.