[manaboutown]

Originally Posted by OrangeBlossomBaby

Absolutely. I wanted us to retire to New Mexico. Been there in late May, so I knew it could get hot and I knew what a hot New Mexico week felt like. It was 105° when our plane landed there, and stayed at 98 or higher the whole week. I was in absolute heaven. Even went horseback riding. Loved it loved it loved it. Of course everyone I was with, was less than happy. I drank a lot of water. Kept my neck covered (sunburn in NM is not for wimps). It wasn't an option though, we needed to be on the east coast. I could've picked South Carolina but it would've either been a family compound away from civilization, or a lot of land, little house, a block from the nearest neighbor, and not in walking distance to anything at all. The other option was The Villages. So - here we are.

I grew up in NM and have spent a good portion of my adult life there as well. I have a business in Albuquerque and so must spend time there. The scenery is incredible. It has four easy seasons, all nice except for the winds in the spring. The crime is off the charts high. Child welfare is the very worst of any state in the country. Schools and medical care rank among the worst in the country. NM is a terribly run poverty stricken state and a mess. I am very happy I no longer must live there.