I WOULD LIKE TO COME BUT MY WIFE IS STILL WORKING

[carlent]

My wife is several years younger and is working full time and still love's to work. We visited for the 1st time last sept and really had a terrific time. We both took golf lessons, used the pools, played shuffleboard anad tried several of the restaurants and loved it all. So now we are thinking about buying a place or maybe even renting for a year. I would ocme down and my wife would come down several times as she is able to get away. Then I would go back up north for the summer and fall. I would like to hear from others who share her views and have come to TV and how they have adjusted to it. Her views about TV are this:
1. a burb feeling....just rows and rows of houses with little personality
2. lack of the arts and the culture that a city offers
3. lack of good quality jobs
4. lack of diversity
5. the feeling that she has of being ina huge retirement community, not in a "real" city, but a manufacturred one.

Now, i share none of these feelings and that is why I could move there today. But I would like to hear from other's who maybe shared these thoughts and come from larger cities and how they have fared in TV.
This would be a great help to us. Thankyou to all for sharing.

[nitehawk]

I would stay where i am now, your wife seems to have everything figured out

[Barefoot]

My husband is still working and I'm retired. I live in TV for six months in the winter, from October to April. My husband "commutes" from Canada. I know several other couples who do the same thing. My husband and I live in Canada from April to October.

It works for us, and let's us both have what we want. Your wife sounds as if it is too early for her to completely retire to a community like TV. The lifestyle isn't for everyone. I wouldn't have been ready for TV five years ago. I love it now. I bet your wife will feel differently in a few years.

[mcelheny]

Your wife is a smart cookie! I think it is a good place to get away from our bad winters here in Fredonia, NY(south of Buffalo). However, it is so good to be home(I am happier) with my hugh lawn I can put anything in. :) I watch the beautiful sunsets over Lake Erie, the rabbits ,squirrels, turkeys in my yard,go to kid's ball games and programs at the school and college. I loved the Villages at first but I got bored with it. Then I got to know some long time Villagers who were moving...I started to see both sides. Everyone seems to love where they pick to live. There are other great places in Florida to live. Take your time. Rent first. Everyone is different and I think your wife has hit the nail on the head.

[chelsea24]

We're from Chicago and now we're full-timers, but we were ready. We don't miss the winters at all! I too think you should rent for a while. We absolutely love it here and I wake up every morning wondering how I got so lucky. Honestly, we are a little over an hour from Orlando and a little over an hour from Tampa, so as far as the cultural aspect, I don't think she would find that a problem. I'm never bored here with the vast amount of activities, but I do have the best of both worlds as I can still work from my home. If she loves her job she should stay put. My husband always said "when the fun goes out of it, I'll retire." And that's what he did. I agree with all that say, "rent or if you can commute and try it for a year. It truly is a wonderful place with tons of activities, great location, and wonderful people.

[nONIE]

Carlent,

I feel as you do. I dont know what it is(some say its the water in TV) but your either a Villages person or your not. You get this feeling when your there that this is home, your finally home again and everything about TV feel so right. Obviously your wife hasant felt this yet and to force her to move would certainly cause some resentment.

Living in TV is like being on a permanent vacation and I sure like that idea.
It seems like you have a workable solution for the time being. Next time your both there, Keep serving her water with a twist. LOL

[nanci2539]

We just moved from IL and renting until our TV home is built. I stayed awake nights wondering if we were making a mistake; leaving everything familiar; the family, the grandkids, just what we knew. It's all about comfort level.

We arrived last Thursday; selected a lot and home within two days. Home should be ready sometime in Sept and we'll have that date next week.

I understand your wife's apprehension and TV is not for everyone. But after being here two days, the stress and all the doubts I had simply vanished. We're renting a small villa and even with the lack of space and amenities I'm use to; this is pure heaven to me.

My husband is still working and can do this from home. We have friends who have lived here since last October. She's only 51; he's 62. She still works but both of them feel blessed that they are living in TV. The only downside for them is she has to travel on her job. She's looking at either leaving her present job and not working to maybe working part time here in TV.

I would rent for awhile As others say, your wife may be a bit too young but I'll tell you, the lifestyle here is far from sedate!

[mcelheny]

I agree with everyone's post. You got to do what you want and like I said everyone is different. I just thought of another reason we like it here up North. It is cheaper for us big time in healthcare. I paid 4 thousand dollars for dental work in the Villages. Came up here and my insurance pays in full. Guess it is what the market will bear and the area here is cheap. Exercise classes are 50 cents-taught by excellent real trained people. I go at 9:45 and no lines, no crowding everyday. I paid 100 dollars for a full membership in an gym for 3 months with every kind of equipment,free newspaper,indoor pool, hot tub and full locker room with sauna. I only shower,wash hair there and get free coffee!!! :)I go everyday and no crowd,no wait,!! :) :)
Excellent healthcare...fast emergency room. If I keep talking I will tell you all to come to Fredonia! :) Beautiful here on Lake Erie.
However, the winters are tough...Being a snowbird would be perfect for me.

[Russ_Boston]

MC - You seem to have everything you want in Fredonia so maybe TV isn't for you. But you'd really have to explain the dental thing to me in more detail. Ignoring insurance for a minute I can't believe that a dentist in Fredonia would be much less than TV (maybe 20% or so at most). Assuming that you could use the same insurance in both places I can't see why it was 4K more in TV unless your TV dentist wasn't part of the dental plan you were using. If that is the case then it was you that made the mistake and not the dentist costs in TV. And most insurance plans have deals with the dentist that specify a specific amount to be paid based on problem rather than actual cost.

I think statements such as you made about the 4K difference cast a real shadow of doubt on other statements that make.

Just my read or your comments.

Now back to the question by Carl - I guess a commute could work but in the long run your wife has to get on board. Maybe TV isn't in your future and the last thing you want to do is drag her kicking and screaming. You didn't mention what line of work she was in. My personal situation is similar in that I don't want to not work so what I've done is gone back to school to become an RN and I plan on working at TVRH (or another close hospital) so that I can enjoy the TV lifestyle - still work a 'decent' paying job until i retire for good in 15 years or so. (I'll be 51 in July). Just thought I'd give you another perspective.

[mcelheny]

Russ,
Call me....or PM me and I WILL PROVIDE all the proof you want!!!!!

Happy Snowbird!

[Russ_Boston]

I just sent a PM.

[Russ_Boston]

MC - I do apologize if it appeared that I called you a liar, that was not my intent and I'm deeply sorry if you took it that way.

Let me rephrase the situation regarding the thread:

I was reacting to the fact that the questioner was asking about TV and it seemed that you were trying to indicate that ALL dentists in TV are completely overpriced. My suggestion (after reading the entire dentist thread that you pointed out) would be this - You (we) should always know exactly what something is going to cost before we commit to the purchase. If you knew that the dental procedure being recommend was 4K more than NY then you could have done a couple of things:

Refuse the service and compare prices at other dentists
Try to negotiate the price showing them other prices that you received (in NY for instance)
Go without the service until you return home. Especially if it was more cosmetic in nature.
Fly back to NY, get the job done and pocket the 3K after subtracting the round trip airfare etc.

I find it hard to believe that all central FLA dentists would act or be as pricey as Villages Dental and wherever you went. Surely we should be able to find a dentist that is reasonably priced and won't recommend unneeded procedures. I know that parts of NY are very inexpensive to live but I thought the extra 4K for a dentist was over the top and isn't a necessary part of living in TV and cast a shadow over TV life as far as the original questioner goes.

Again, I apologize.

[redwitch]

Carl, here's my take on your wife's objections:

I came from the SF Bay Area. I had season tickets to the symphony and the ballet. I went to many rock concerts and, of course, several sporting events.

I agree with her on the burb feeling -- especially south of 466. This is one of the reasons I could never live there. I love the historic section -- it has true personality (albeit not always my taste, but at least it is different).

I miss the symphony and the ballet even more so. There are some cultural events at Savannah Center. If I get really desparate, Gainesville has a decent ballet company. Orlando has a very symphony. Haven't checked out Tampa yet. These are all within an easy drive.

You'll get no argument from me about the quality jobs. Unless you're willing to commute to Okala, the decent jobs here are few and far between. That's why I decided to try to start my own business.

She's wrong about the diversity. It is here. There are many ethnicities living in TV. There are several ethnic restaurants. It does not have ethnicity of a large city. Nor does it have ethnic groups divided into their own sections (there's no "Little Italy," "Japantown", Harlem, etc.). There are clubs for almost any ethnicity and race here.

Can't argue that this is a "manufactured" city but the reality is that that's true of any city. Most cities begin as focal points for transportation and grow from there. That doesn't make them any less of a city. TV is a small city in the middle of nowhere. It is a strange feeling at first but one I've come to enjoy.

As some have said, she may discover that TV is not the right fit for her. However, if she comes with an open mind and gives it an honest chance, she may be pleasantly surprised and learn to love it as much as most of us do.

[samhass]

Carl, I felt the same way your wife feels...for two years! We were visiting friends at the end of year two when we bought a house on a whim. We figured we'd come down a couple months a year and just hold it as an investment. Lo and behold I ended up loving it here and purchased our second home nine month later. TV has lovely amenities, etc, but ultimately it was about the people and sunshine for me. TV has such a diverse group of residents. I am amazed by all the talent of TV residents. I met a man that flew the Goodyear blimp as his job. How cool is that?? From the arts to sciences, Villagers are an amazing group in terms of
brainpower. I have also met some of the kindest, funniest, loving, and gracious people.
TV is a goldmine of wonderful residents. Yes, there are some stinkers, but overall..it's wonderful.

[Russ_Boston]

I agree with her on the burb feeling -- especially south of 466. This is one of the reasons I could never live there. I love the historic section -- it has true personality (albeit not always my taste, but at least it is different).

Carl - This is why TV is unique. I (my wife even more than me) actually prefer the look of 466 south. Nothing wrong with the northern side but the burb look of 466S is preferable for us. Heck by the time we get there we'll probably be 466A south in Brownwood. Granted some of the villa developments can give you that sameness feel but over time with individual lanscaping etc. that would change as well. Red, Rhonda and others love the Historic side, Dick loves Duval, etc. etc. Something for everyone.

[mcelheny]

Russ,
You told me you don't live here yet. Of course you loved the first glance. It is like Disney....

I think the world of Sam and Red so I won't argue with them. I will say there are great people everywhere! (including outside the Villages) I am so happy to be away from a controlling developer, houses are top of house, and nasty people. Yes for us, we saw many nasty events in the town squares, pools, golf courses, traffic etc. I think the place has a few know it alls and then in the winter it gets crowded and people drink. Oh none of that makes the paper...you have to be there.
Dog just got groomed for 20 dollars that cost 50 in the Villages. I walk through parks and along the beach of Lake Erie here with so many flowers, trees and cute young college boys running by with no shirts! ;D ;)
Friends that have left the Villages live in gated communities where they have an amenity fee that pays for their cable, lawn service, garbage and more open areas. They are happier. So just remember there are two sides to everything.
It is a beautiful day here so I'm going to the lake. Everyone have a great Day! :)

[Barefoot]

There are great people everywhere! (including outside the Villages) I am so happy to be away from a controlling developer, houses are top of house, and nasty people. Friends that have left the Villages live in gated communities where they have an amenity fee that pays for their cable, lawn service, garbage and more open areas. They are happier.

Marti
I think it is important to have a balanced perspective, so I welcome your comments. TOTV is primarily a site for wannabees and newbies. We usually don't hear much from "seasoned" residents, or from people who decide to move out. I've met you personally and know that you're not a negative person.

Of course there are people who would be happier living somewhere other than TV. I met several couples at the dog park who've decided to sell and head home because they find the summers too hot. I've also known people who moved to Stoncrest and other developments in preference to TV. It's not for everyone.

For me, it is perfect, and I'm in love with TV. That is the only way to describe it. I can go anywhere by myself in TV and feel perfectly safe. Even though I don't golf, I love the golf cart lifestyle.

I initially dreaded coming home to Canada for the summer. But now I'm enjoying the cooler weather, the lakes and forests, and seeing old friends. I'm finding it provides a welcome balance to TV. I think those of us who winter in TV and summer in the north have the best of both worlds, and are truly blessed.

I think about TV everyday .. and I sure am looking forward to getting back to the Reservation!

[Russ_Boston]

Picture my head spinning.

Huh? Never claimed I lived there. Just went on a preview visit in April along with a couple of other visits to friends who live there (in 2006) If you re-read my comments my wife and I looked around and liked south of 466 better. That just my opinion. Obviously, when we move we may have different opinions after some time has gone by. If so then we'll pack up and leave like you did. Maybe it was because i was there when it wasn't so crowded but i didn't meet ONE nasty person all week and enjoyed meeting new friends as well as catching up with some old friends who live near Lopez.

Enjoy your day on the lake. Doesn't sound like we would have been good friends anyway so I guess we can agree to disagree.

Sorry Carl, I'm sure this disagreement isn't helping your decision any.

[mcelheny]

Russ-i have tons of good friends I don't always agree with....


Bare,
You hit the nail on the head. I am happy where ever I am. I really didn't want to leave the Villages.
Now I am happy here and surprised I am so happy. :o Love this place in the summer. I sure hope I can be a snowbird! :)
I just want people to research and know there are two sides. Like marriage...when men are courting you they are dolls...ha,Ha,Ha,

I really do love the people of TOTV(mostly)
Love ya Bare.

[mcelheny]

Russ-
the mostly is not you!!!
We might or might not be good friends but I help all people in need! :)

[nanci2539]

We just purchased a home (being built) here and you guys are not giving me a warm and fuzzy feeling!

In my opinion - and it's just an opinion; unless you're going up North to spend the summers at the shore or on a lake; it's hot! It's hot in IL in the summer; it's hot in FLA in the summer.

People are people but I've yet to meet anyone nasty; not smiling or not helpful.

As Red said, this is not a communist camp (my words); one is free to leave TV and go into the city to enjoy a symphony or ballet. If I wanted to do either living in IL; the drive was over an hour plus (in back to back traffic) to downtown Chicago to see a play or a ballet.

[RThorne]

I feel your pain...I retired 5 years ago and my wife is 5 years youger than I. Problem #1 is that she is only 50 & has an established real estate career. I would move tomorrow but she wants to plan on it in a few years. We live in small town in upstate NY close to Albany where dinner and a movie is the highlight. My folks have been in The Villages for 19 years & I have grown to love it there. I don't think I will be a happy camper to wait a few years. Not much help but looking to vent. Good Luck

[golfpro]

Carlent:

I applaud you as a husband for considering your wife's feelings and desires as well. Too often decisions in a marriage are made out of harmony and without respect for one another. It doesn't sound like you are all that miserable with how your wife feels, and that you know harmony in your marriage trumps decisions made without consensus and timing for both.

I admire that. Also, TV is not the only place for an active retirement. You can be active and retire without joining a retirement community. We are in the place you are right now in trying to decide where and how we would like to spend our retirement years together.

To the person who intimated that not chosing TV lifestyle was knocking him/her, I don't think that was impled at all. Your sensitivity may be telling.

Kudos to carlent for opening up this that kind of criticism, warranted or not ! Fortunately, opinions or others are varied and not so critical.

[njgranny]

Even if there are a few grumpy people in the Villages, it shouldn't deter anyone from moving there. There are grumpy people everywhere. We found that the place appealed to us over any others that we visited. I'm sure there will be bumps along the way - but it can't be worse than freezing here in NJ during the winters.

We found the idea that we could use golf carts to go just about everywhere kind of liberating. In July, we'll get a chance to experience it.

[mcelheny]

Duffer4384 ...I have OWNED in the Villages for 3 years. I am a Florida resident because I spend 8 months in the Villages every year. Everyone is different and everyone has different opinions. As Bare said-this is a website for people who love the Villages. Anyplace has its good and bad points. I am happy wherever I am...life is good and I am blessed. :welcome:

[carlent]

this is how we resolved it. I am coming down for the winter. After many, many phone calls and e-mails, I found a place in the Village of Country Club Hills, just a short block from the Orange Blossom CC. So I can walk to the club, get a bite to eat and i can use the pool and tiki Bar so life is good! Also can walk to Spanish Springs Downtown from that location. (can you tell I am a walker)
My wife who owns a business, will come when she can get away and is looking foward to it. We will try this on for size, and hope that it is a rewarding expeience and that it might lead to buying in TV next year or the year after.
I hope I picked the right area....it seems to have all I am looking for in location and the rolling hills are really special.
Would love to hear from anyone who lives in this village for some feedback. I am really looking foward to this winter and to meeting some of you who participate in this forum.

[graciegirl]

I kinda think you are overlooking the elephant in the room. If one person in a relationship doesn't like an area for a number of reasons, it won't be a good ending to the problem. It isn't Paradise unless both people are happy. Rent for awhile. Don't lose your good marriage.

I resisted the idea like crazy for seven years. I came down on a life style visit and completely changed my mind.(The area had grown into something I loved) We have had season tickets to The Broadway Series (with comfortable seats) in Cincy for years and can see the Cincinnati pops and symphony any time we want. I am not hearing as well as I used too, and I have seen a lot of plays and heard a lot of good music in my life and I don't think I will miss it. Although I am told that the Villages can provide the same.

Diversity is something that becomes one color one style with enough maturity. Most people are alike no matter the country of origin and cultural differences.

Bottom line, if your wife doesn't want to come here, think and think again.

[nONIE]

Carlent,

We bought in CC Hills last March. We are very happy with our location. But its not for everyone. Most of the homes of course are manufactured with a few exceptions being sightbuilt.

It is a very quiet village and everyone takes pride in their property and keeps things neat as a pin. I love the mature landscaping and large trees, you dont find too much of that in the newer sections. I also love the fact that there is not much traffic there , neither car or golfcart.Another plus is the new doggie park if you have a dog,and the beautiful park with pond which is home to many exotic water fowl. Yes the country club and large beautiful swimming pool is close by. Personally, I think you will love it.Oh and almost forgot, if you are a golfer, there is a lovely golf course in that area. What more could one possibly want?????

Heres hoping that your wife falls in love with it!!!

[mcelheny]

Carlent,
Excellent! Beautiful Village!
My husband still works so we are the reverse with me living as a snowbird and him coming to visit. I wish I hadn't bought so fast.(new) I loved it the first year, very much still like it but am not sure what I will do when this Developer is no longer trying to sell houses. I have friends who have lived in the Villages for 10- 15-20 years who have moved to other places. They love their new homes and I am beginning to realize that everybody thinks their location is the best. I take it one day at a time. I don't want to live here year around. I wish I had done what you are doing.
So good choice! :welcome:

[renielarson]

I apologize for hijacking this thread but I just can't help myself...

When you go to the Home page and view the recent posts...only part of this thread title appears.

It appears as....I would like to come but...

Oh my, I'm so sorry that I have a warped sense of humor but I can't help myself... 1rnfl

[Barefoot]

Carlent

Great decision to rent! It will give you an opportunity to see if this lifestyle suits you. And for your wife to spend more time in TV.
There are many of us who are retired and still have working spouses who visit.

I am retired, living in TV for six months in the winter, and Fireboy visits TV frequently. It works well for us. I think it will be a grand adventure for you both. I'll be returning to TV in the Fall and hope to meet you then!

[carlent]

Barefoot
Thanks so much for your support and kind words. Yes, we both think that this is a great adventure and are looking foward to it. I will be in place on Dec 1st and am looking foward to meeting you and others who have also offered kind words.

carlent

[Russ_Boston]

Bright - Any you give me the 'sigh' every now and then?

I like the way you think though. :joke: