[garsha]

We got rid of almost everything and started fresh with alot of things. Our furniture was decent but most we had for 20 years or so and alot of it was big and bulky. I have a small kitchen in TV so I simplified. I do cook alot at home so I needed kitchen tools, but it is amazing how little you do need. You don't need 3 or 4 pyrex dishes anymore--one will do. I didn't need the 24 set of dishes, water and wine glasses for the big family parties, so I split them up with my nephew and daughter. Even they didn't want 24! I had 2 1/2 years to prepare, so I had several garage sales after I figured out what stuff the kids and family wanted. Our garage sales were priced to sell. I felt better giving it away for a small amount than just tossing it to the curb. When all else was done, I called in a local charity that would pick up and they took the rest.

I have only been here since Jan, so I still have nothing in my dining room (gave my huge dining and hutch to my daughter)--but I am thinking I will make it a game area--not sure yet and I am playing too much to find what I want to do with it. I still have a Florida room that I am using as a sewing room and have a plastic table and chairs that I watch the wonderful lightening storms from. Someday that will look better.

Life IS different in TV. I read the paper, I play cards with the neighbors (their house or ours), I play golf 2-3 times a week, I am on a bowling league, I cook dinner and I do enjoy inviting a few friends over for dinner. I never did any of these activties back home when I worked.

Big parties are usually held in garages and everyone brings something to eat, their own chair, and own drinks. The one thing I didn't bring that I should have is the 8 foot plastic fold up table for the block parties. I will probably need to buy one of those.

Thnk about how much it costs to move. Is what you are bringing worth it, and if so bring it. Garage sales are fun to go to also here. Even with all my cleaning out, my garage attic is full and some day I will be having my own garage sale. Good luck and hurry----you are missing a wonderful chapter of your life.