[Carl in Tampa]

It is with sincere feelings of sadness that Barbara and I are ending our connection with The Villages.

In my case The Villages was never my "official" address, although I spent the majority of my time here for close to three years before returning to Tampa as the place where I spent most of my time. I did continue to have my primary care doctor and cardiologist here, with my other doctors in Tampa. Coming back for appointments also gave me the opportunity to visit with Barbara, and to continue to explore places of dining and entertainment in the area. A few months ago I found a cardiologist in Tampa, and this month I am changing to a primary care doctor in Tampa.

In Barbara's case, she has developed mobility problems which make it necessary to move to be close to her children and grandchildren in Las Vegas. We have talked every day on the phone, and that won't change.

Barbara and I were both captivated by our life style experience in The Villages, and would not be making these changes if we did not consider them medically necessary. She can no longer drive to Tampa to see me, nor can I drive to The Villages to see her.

We made some wonderful friends here, and have maintained friendships even after the friends moved to other areas. We expect the same experience after our departure; our friends will stay in touch.

Many of you have become friends in person; others only by contact on TOTV. I expect that I will continue to visit the TOTV message board from time to time.

We wish all of you continued happiness in a really wonderful little slice of Florida.