Good planning. I live alone. When I moved here, I brought CDs, DVDs, books, about 50 paintings, one chair, two 4x8’ bookcases, musical instruments, some tools and kitchen things. I bought a 1600 sq ft house, furnished, with dining for six and a pool. I thought I’d be throwing dinner parties. That didn’t happen. I thought family would visit. That didn’t happen, either. So, I’m downsizing to a 1200 sq ft courtyard villa. No room for the very nice furniture that came with this house, so I’m leaving it behind and cutting down to a new Queen-size bed, a day bed, a couple arm chairs, a dining table for two. Cutting and cutting. There still isn’t enough room.
Bear in mind that if you are buying a 1200 sq ft courtyard villa, it’s not much bigger than an apartment in a retirement center. You can’t take much there. You’d might as well get into the habit now. If you aren’t outgoing and a great entertainer, you’ll be lucky to have one person come over at a time. I’m involved with various musical activities and have some acquaintances, but we meet at the activities. Many thousands of people here live pretty solitary lives, especially if they are single, divorced, or widowed. I still love it here, though.
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