Unhappy Villagers

[outlaw]

Based on TOTV and the online news comments/letters, there seem to be a lot of unhappy TVers. Could it be disillusionment in the reality of living here versus the vacation lifestyle visit that sold them on TV? Could it be TV changing from the "friendliest village" to just another overcrowded municipal area with a lot of stressed out people competing for limited resources? Or maybe, it has to do with world politics and global unrest. It's just a sense I have. I'm not sure it even exists. Just wondering if others sense this undercurrent of discontent.

[GolfGirl122]

I hate to be viewed as negative, but my answer to your questions would be - no.

[indianavette]

We have been here 15 months and love it. Miss the grandkids but visit often

[Chi-Town]

Based on TOTV and the online news comments/letters, there seem to be a lot of unhappy TVers. Could it be disillusionment in the reality of living here versus the vacation lifestyle visit that sold them on TV? Could it be TV changing from the "friendliest village" to just another overcrowded municipal area with a lot of stressed out people competing for limited resources? Or maybe, it has to do with world politics and global unrest. It's just a sense I have. I'm not sure it even exists. Just wondering if others sense this undercurrent of discontent.
Based on the sampling base of TOTVers and online news comments I can see what you are noticing. But my take is that the negativity is from a small proportion of malcontents on a repetitious basis, and that most prople here are as happy as they ever have been.

[Challenger]

Based on TOTV and the online news comments/letters, there seem to be a lot of unhappy TVers. Could it be disillusionment in the reality of living here versus the vacation lifestyle visit that sold them on TV? Could it be TV changing from the "friendliest village" to just another overcrowded municipal area with a lot of stressed out people competing for limited resources? Or maybe, it has to do with world politics and global unrest. It's just a sense I have. I'm not sure it even exists. Just wondering if others sense this undercurrent of discontent.

For every one person that I have met who said that they were un happy here, I have met hundreds who wish they had moved here earlier in life.
Unhappiness , in my view, is usually a state of mind not a place.

[Allegiance]

Those alleged unhappy villagers are not villagers at all, but online planted imposters from other jealous communities. Anyone need only be here to see that it is actually utopia! My arm is tired from waving at all the smiling villagers.

[asianthree]

I only find people that are unhappy here are usually just unhappy. I find many people who are ecstatic to be here and love every day that they wake up to enjoy whatever they choose to do

[tomwed]

It's the squeaky wheel that gets greased. In the villages the other wheels don't hear very well.

[ladylake1]

15 years and still loving it!!!

[Greg Nelson]

Some people have a hard time living with themselves, regardless of where they are.. being from a rural lake area of Minnesota, where most people retire to Arizona, the only drawback in TV is where homes are too close together. Our rental in Quail Ridge is at the end of the street, with only one neighbor Carol who is very sweet. From the hot tub we look out on the Lopez golf course..nice!

[Cobh521]

I'm very happy living in The Villages

[Jima64]

I wonder if they were also unhappy where they previously lived. Hard to imagine being retired, living in a clean safe community with so many possible activities and not be happy.

[DonH57]

In our experiences of living here for about 2 and half years we haven't met but maybe 3 people that were unhappy with the villages. Anywhere you go you will find unhappy people and malcontents. Some are unhappy no matter where they are. As for me, I'm just as happy as if I had good sense!

[samhass]

This is a wonderful place to live. I think many older people become unhappy because of pain, illness, loss of a loved one, missing family, etc. These factors would affect them no matter where they lived, but if you have to be miserable, sunshine is just what you need for brightening up your day. And we have it!

[TheVillageChicken]

I am not happy about the golf here. I have been playing since 1953, and this is the first place I have played regularly that doesn't have empowered marshals.

Aside from that, the only thing I don't like about living here is the downsizing aspect. Back in Rooster Poot, I had a fully equipped metal fabricating shop and lots of toys...I miss them all.

[MikeV]

I love it here but I must admit I am a little concerned about the expansion of TV and the limited resources. I think it will be snow bird season year round once the so called build out is done.

[Bonny]

I hate it here !! The golf courses are awful ! They have yet to let me get a hole in one !! LOL :p
Actually, we've been here over 15 years and we "LOVE" it here. I could never imagine living anywhere else! :D

[tomwed]

I am not happy about the golf here. I have been playing since 1953, and this is the first place I have played regularly that doesn't have empowered marshals.

Aside from that, the only thing I don't like about living here is the downsizing aspect. Back in Rooster Poot, I had a fully equipped metal fabricating shop and lots of toys...I miss them all.
The woodshop is great and I used to be a shop teacher. I do wonder what it would be like to have a metal shop too. I've given up on making furniture. It's truly a labor of love meant for people who love the working with wood. It's rare that a piece looks as good as store bought.

But the fixes I need to make or the projects I dream up seem to be more metal working then wood. Just a minor thought not to be taken seriously. some people would put legs on a snake,

[buzzy]

I am not happy about the golf here. I have been playing since 1953, and this is the first place I have played regularly that doesn't have empowered marshals.

Aside from that, the only thing I don't like about living here is the downsizing aspect. Back in Rooster Poot, I had a fully equipped metal fabricating shop and lots of toys...I miss them all.

Boy, it's all relative. We moved here after 19 yrs in a 1100 sq ft condo. I had to rent a 12x24 garage bay for my workshop. Now it is right out through the kitchen door.

[Coach Fritz]

The fact of the matter is that there is no other place like this in the rest of the world!! We have everything.....2,500 clubs.....all filled up with happy folks doing EXACTLY what they want to do. Our new performing arts center is spectacular! What sport do you want to try? What music do you want to listen to or participate in? What service do you want to participate in? ETC IT'S ALL HERE!! The greatest majority of people in the Villages areextremely happy. Most of us wish that we had moved here sooner.

[TheVillageChicken]

Boy, it's all relative. We moved here after 19 yrs in a 1100 sq ft condo. I had to rent a 12x24 garage bay for my workshop. Now it is right out through the kitchen door.

I just don't think the neighbors would like to hear me pounding steel into shape and I am pretty sure State Farm would get a little grumpy about the welder and cutting torch.

[Walt.]

Boy, it's all relative. We moved here after 19 yrs in a 1100 sq ft condo. I had to rent a 12x24 garage bay for my workshop. Now it is right out through the kitchen door.

Wow. I also moved here after 19 years in an 1100 sq ft. condo (with no garage). I also had neighbors I didn't know... no activities... and a trip through bad neighborhoods if I had to go somewhere.
Now I have a bigger house with a garage... great neighbors... lots to do.
I couldn't be happier.

[queasy27]

I'm not gonna do it, but my guess is that if you searched the post history of everyone here who has shared their happiness, there would be a few complaints scattered around. A hearty bitchfest once in a while doesn't necessarily mean people are unhappy, either with TV or their lives in general.

But people do leave -- 2 on my street moved out of TV to nearby cities last year because they were dissatisfied for one reason or another.

[rubicon]

Based on TOTV and the online news comments/letters, there seem to be a lot of unhappy TVers. Could it be disillusionment in the reality of living here versus the vacation lifestyle visit that sold them on TV? Could it be TV changing from the "friendliest village" to just another overcrowded municipal area with a lot of stressed out people competing for limited resources? Or maybe, it has to do with world politics and global unrest. It's just a sense I have. I'm not sure it even exists. Just wondering if others sense this undercurrent of discontent.

outlaw: you will never get a satisfactory answer. I happened to agree with your assessment. You should bear in mind that marketing is what The Villages Lake-Sumter, Inc. (TVLSI) (Developer) are best at. In fact that packaged it and offered it out to other communities (Developers) for a hefty price.

That's why you find references to The Villages being an adult Disneyworld or Florida's Friendliest Hometown"or Florida's Healthiest Town or build you dream home all marketing I believe this type of marketing hype actually hurts more than it helps in the long run because it sets unrealistic expectations.

I built my dream home in the Minneapolis area. I left Minneapolis area which I loved for two main reasons snow and taxes. But, thankfully I didn't leave family behind. I know many people who moved here that miss their families and go back often because of that fact either as snow birds or even full time residents.

The sheen wears off this place quickly and I for one accept it as to what it is to me and that was an investment which my kids can use or sell as this so wish because after 9 years I still could not recoup my investment and make a reasonable profit and I live on a champion golf course. To be sure it is a safe place and a clean place and most people I find are friendly and my kids enjoy their visits.

[redwitch]

I'm one of the very few that didn't move here to fulfill a dream. For me, it was a safe place to land. Even so, I don't regret my choice. I probably will always think of the SF area as home but I do love this bubble. It's not perfect here but it's pretty darn good. I usually find something to make me smile every day. I grouse about some things and I'm not a huge fan of the developer (but I do appreciate the work and effort it took to make Harold Schwartz's dream a reality). Not everyone is going to like it here and most of us take issue to something (dogs, bikes, golf cart drivers, etc.) but that doesn't mean we're not happy here or regret our choice, it simply means there are things we'd like changed. For that matter, I'd like to be 35, a leggy redhead, successful and have a nice body but I'll take me as I am and like some of the stuff about me and accept the rest as it is. The same goes for TV.

[tomwed]

Take a look at the Tags.

Tags
lot, sense, unhappy, politics, world, people, resources, limited, competing, global, wondering, discontent, undercurrent, exists, unrest, village, tvers, disillusionment, living, reality, comments/letters, based, villagers, totv, online


I don't know what to make of this. Where is "happy, unlimited, non-competitive, local, content, restful, accepting"? Where are the positive tags? I
'm going to assume that a computer program makes a tag list. But why aren't positive terms being tags too? Clearly this thread has far more positive, over 99% positive comments.

[billethkid]

I vote we switch over and talk about why the 98.6573854% like it here.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

For every one person that I have met who said that they were un happy here, I have met hundreds who wish they had moved here earlier in life.
Unhappiness , in my view, is usually a state of mind not a place.

I agree.

[Arctic Fox]

Based on TOTV and the online news comments/letters, there seem to be a lot of unhappy TVers.

As Thoreau says in the Conclusion to Walden, "The fault finder will find faults even in paradise".

[NYGUY]

As Thoreau says in the Conclusion to Walden, "The fault finder will find faults even in paradise".

So true!!!..:BigApplause:

[Bogie Shooter]

Based on the sampling base of TOTVers and online news comments I can see what you are noticing. But my take is that the negativity is from a small proportion of malcontents on a repetitious basis, and that most prople here are as happy as they ever have been.

I agree!

[Bogie Shooter]

Based on TOTV and the online news comments/letters, there seem to be a lot of unhappy TVers. Could it be disillusionment in the reality of living here versus the vacation lifestyle visit that sold them on TV? Could it be TV changing from the "friendliest village" to just another overcrowded municipal area with a lot of stressed out people competing for limited resources? Or maybe, it has to do with world politics and global unrest. It's just a sense I have. I'm not sure it even exists. Just wondering if others sense this undercurrent of discontent.

I've read all the posts.............seems like you are the only one.

[2BNTV]

1. Not every one on TOTV, lives here.
2. People are about as happy as they make up their minds to be. A. Lincoln
3. I know one person who is always complaining about something in TV, but then she would be unhappy, no matter where she lived. Some people have problems and think a change of venue will solve them but they will take their problems, wherever they go.

Speaking for myself, I pinch myself every day and thank a friend I made, for introducing me to this wonderful lifestyle. It's not perfect and some people will gripe over minor annoyances, but the big picture has too much upside.

Negative people are like the tail, trying to wag the dog but the great majority is the dog, that wags it's tail.

I agree with BTK, lets talk about the almost 99% that are happy to be here!. :smiley:

I love TV and it's myriad of opportunities, to enjoy oneself.

[dewilson58]

Some people aren't happy even if they get five pickles (the optimal amount) strategically positioned on their cheeseburger.


:cryin2:

:cryin2:

:cryin2:

[Bonny]

1. Not every one on totv, lives here.
2. People are about as happy as they make up their minds to be. A. Lincoln
3. I know one person who is always complaining about something in tv, but then she would be unhappy, no matter where she lived. Some people have problems and think a change of venue will solve them but they will take their problems, wherever they go.

Speaking for myself, i pinch myself every day and thank a friend i made, for introducing me to this wonderful lifestyle. It's not perfect and some people will gripe over minor annoyances, but the big picture has too much upside.

Negative people are like the tail, trying to wag the dog but the great majority is the dog, that wags it's tail.

I agree with btk, lets talk about the almost 99% that are happy to be here!. :smiley:

I love tv and it's myriad of opportunities, to enjoy oneself.
Me too !!! :D

[tomwed]

Some people aren't happy even if they get five pickles (the optimal amount) strategically positioned on their cheeseburger.


:cryin2:

:cryin2:

:cryin2:
Kool-Aid pickles
Kool-Aid pickles or "koolickles", enjoyed by children and Villagers in parts of the Southern United States, are created by soaking dill pickles in a mixture of Kool-Aid and pickle brine.
from Wikipedia

[angiefox10]

The "tags" for a post are from the Original Post. If you check out the OP, you will see those are all words in that post.

As for me... I've lived here for almost four years and I have totally exceeded my dreams i had of moving here!

This is the best move we made... And I can say honestly, I haven't met a lot of people who weren't happy here. I have met some that didn't give themselves time to meet people and some that hated leaving friends and family "back home". But for us.. We have new friends and life is wonderful.

[Bruiser1]

Some people have a hard time living with themselves, regardless of where they are.. being from a rural lake area of Minnesota, where most people retire to Arizona, the only drawback in TV is where homes are too close together. Our rental in Quail Ridge is at the end of the street, with only one neighbor Carol who is very sweet. From the hot tub we look out on the Lopez golf course..nice!

Welcome to the Villages from the land of 10,000 Nelsons! Uff da!

[tomwed]

The "tags" for a post are from the Original Post. If you check out the OP, you will see those are all words in that post.

As for me... I've lived here for almost four years and I have totally exceeded my dreams i had of moving here!

This is the best move we made... And I can say honestly, I haven't met a lot of people who weren't happy here. I have met some that didn't give themselves time to meet people and some that hated leaving friends and family "back home". But for us.. We have new friends and life is wonderful.
Thank-you
that makes a lot of sense

[Cedwards38]

In my entire time living in The Villages, I've met one couple who say they do not like living here, yet they still live here, so go figure. I wouldn't take the discussions on TOTV as a indication that people are disenchanted with this community. Those are often about a specific situation, and last for a specific period of time, and certainly not everyone agrees. A place can be fantastic and still not be perfect. And if it isn't perfect, then it's up to those of us that love it and enjoy it to try to make it so.

[kcrazorbackfan]

My wife has been here since 3/1/15, THE DAY AFTER SHE RETIRED!! I got here in mid May, after the KC home sold. I've groused about stuff on here, mainly divots, ball marks and people who complain incessantly about tight lies, but we absolutely love it here. The only thing I truly dislike here is the rotator cuff surgery I had to have 5 weeks after I got here and not being able to play golf until December.

I really can't fathom as to why a person would not be happy here. Is it perfect? Nah, but it's pretty close.

[dbussone]

I only find people that are unhappy here are usually just unhappy. I find many people who are ecstatic to be here and love every day that they wake up to enjoy whatever they choose to do


Wow. I couldn't express it any better.

[jebartle]

Love this place and the fun-loving Villagers... Really hard to find anything wrong with TV.. Life is good.

[rubicon]

As Thoreau says in the Conclusion to Walden, "The fault finder will find faults even in paradise".

Dear Posters:

I do read every post on every thread if I intend to comment. My first observation is that many posters paint with a broad brush. What i mean by this is some conclude because a resident complains about something that s/he is unhappy and would be unhappy anywhere. But the other side of that coin is the complaint may be justified., is a temporary distraction and certainly isn't an indicator that this person is unhappy at least to the extent indicated by some posters

My second observation has to do with the Thoreau. I do understand the meaning of his statement but paradise (heavenly place) is a subjective concept and to me it means eternal life, no disease, no pain, no discomfort........................Such a place cannot be found on earth and hence you can't fault fault finders for finding fault that;s the human reality.

In my view some posters are judging people and not what people are complaining about. Some folks do crowds well my wife is one of them. I don't because I promised myself that once I left the military no more lines:D

This same topic comes up time after time on this forum. Some view TV as paradise, some do not. Some of us are social and view TV from that perspective, some of us our more political and focus on government (Districts).....But i believe it is unfair to dismiss out of hand or define someone who complains as doing so just because they will never be satisfied because that is too broad a brush and at the time it is happening to you its personal ( that guy just pulled out in front of me).( that green is so tore up we might default to the automatic two putt rule and move on). Consider too, the other side of this issue perhaps those painting with this broad brush are too easily satisfied that's not always good thing either.

I am just trying to find balance here

[zcaveman]

I've read all the posts.............seems like you are the only one.

Why would anyone ever complain about TV on this forum? All of you would jump down his throat just like you did the OP.

I can think of lots of things I do not like about the Villages but I am not going to share them with anyone here.

These problems will never go away but they are not going to change my happiness with living here.

Z

[Buffalo Jim]

Long practiced " cranks " love it here because they are now retired and can pursue their favorite hobby of eternal " Unhappiness " and " Victim-hood " 24/7 .
And as an added benefit they have a very large community of generally very happy people they can constantly " rain their diatribes on " 7 days a week .
There is a unique life-style opportunity for every passion in the Villages !

[Bonny]

Long practiced " cranks " love it here because they are now retired and can pursue their favorite hobby of eternal " Unhappiness " and " Victim-hood " 24/7 .
And as an added benefit they have a very large community of generally very happy people they can constantly " rain their diatribes on " 7 days a week .
There is a unique life-style opportunity for every passion in the Villages !:a20:

[MikeyBoo54]

We've only been here 7 months and it seems to me like Jim's not wrong. I just don't equate being easily satisfied with not complaining. There is a middle ground.

[rubicon]

Long practiced " cranks " love it here because they are now retired and can pursue their favorite hobby of eternal " Unhappiness " and " Victim-hood " 24/7 .
And as an added benefit they have a very large community of generally very happy people they can constantly " rain their diatribes on " 7 days a week .
There is a unique life-style opportunity for every passion in the Villages !

That's not a fair and balanced assessment but it does underscore why a resident should be reluctant to tell the truth because for sure someone is going to label them as this individual did above. So to all truth tellers be aware that some residents just can't handle the truth because you just might rain on their disneyworld parade .

[rubicon]

Why would anyone ever complain about TV on this forum? All of you would jump down his throat just like you did the OP.

I can think of lots of things I do not like about the Villages but I am not going to share them with anyone here.

These problems will never go away but they are not going to change my happiness with living here.

Z

Agree , people are not looking for honesty there looking for mutual adoration society for the villages lifestyle.

[mickey100]

Dear Posters:

I do read every post on every thread if I intend to comment. My first observation is that many posters paint with a broad brush. What i mean by this is some conclude because a resident complains about something that s/he is unhappy and would be unhappy anywhere. But the other side of that coin is the complaint may be justified., is a temporary distraction and certainly isn't an indicator that this person is unhappy at least to the extent indicated by some posters

My second observation has to do with the Thoreau. I do understand the meaning of his statement but paradise (heavenly place) is a subjective concept and to me it means eternal life, no disease, no pain, no discomfort........................Such a place cannot be found on earth and hence you can't fault fault finders for finding fault that;s the human reality.

In my view some posters are judging people and not what people are complaining about. Some folks do crowds well my wife is one of them. I don't because I promised myself that once I left the military no more lines:D

This same topic comes up time after time on this forum. Some view TV as paradise, some do not. Some of us are social and view TV from that perspective, some of us our more political and focus on government (Districts).....But i believe it is unfair to dismiss out of hand or define someone who complains as doing so just because they will never be satisfied because that is too broad a brush and at the time it is happening to you its personal ( that guy just pulled out in front of me).( that green is so tore up we might default to the automatic two putt rule and move on). Consider too, the other side of this issue perhaps those painting with this broad brush are too easily satisfied that's not always good thing either.

I am just trying to find balance here

I agree with you and zcaveman. To imply that because someone dares to voice complaints with the Villages, and therefore they are unhappy people that would never be satisfied with anything, is a big stretch, and IMHO, not too logical. Of course there are things that people legitimately complain about. And of course there are people who truly are unhappy, but I believe to base our judgements about the part of a person we see on this forum, is short sighted. I have spoken with people who post on this forum who say they are afraid to express their real views about some issues, because of the attacks they will endure.

[Arctic Fox]

Never let it be said that I am an apologist for The Villages, but I do think that this thread is one of the few that has remained fairly balanced. People have their opinions, but both sides have been recorded here in reasonable numbers, without recourse to too much in the way of name-calling.

And it has yet to be Shanghaid by those wishing to express their opinions on dog poop, roundabouts and cyclists on Buena Vista...

[Polar Bear]

How about...TV is a wonderful-but-not-perfect place to retire, good for many but not for everyone. :)

[manaboutown]

Agree , people are not looking for honesty there looking for mutual adoration society for the villages lifestyle.

Most seniors, after they have made a decision to relocate to a retirement community, want to remain happy and content and be supported by affirmations as to the wisdom of their choice. They want to obtain and retain a positive outlook on life and enjoy it as best they can. They really do not want to hear the downside(s) or dwell on criticisms (valid or not) but delight in receiving comments on the merits of their selection and bask in the rewards during their golden years most have worked hard for a lifetime to achieve.

The success of The Villages speaks for itself with now over 100,000 residents, most of whom appear to be quite happy. Obviously there are those who are most happy when they are grumbling, griping and fault finding but thankfully they are few in number.

[Shimpy]

I do wonder what it would be like to have a metal shop too.


I'd be the first member if they had a machine shop.

[HimandMe]

We love living here and all the wonderful neighbors that have become friends. No TV is not perfect but better than most.
As far as being honest on TOTV, I can see why some do not post their truths because they are intimidated by a few ready to leap in at every opportunity rather than just let the opinion sit. On the other hand so many other forums are just a place to gripe and complain instead of sharing useful information. The Internet is full of them and most of us just do not bother with them anymore. TOTV is more upbeat by far, it's a relief.

[Barefoot]

That's not a fair and balanced assessment but it does underscore why a resident should be reluctant to tell the truth because for sure someone is going to label them as this individual did above. So to all truth tellers be aware that some residents just can't handle the truth because you just might rain on their disneyworld parade .

We've lived in The Villages for eight years now (for six months during the winter).
While we love TV and think it's a wonderful place to winter, I don't think it's the only great place to live.
We've had a few good friends who happily lived in TV for a few years, and then sold their houses and moved on.
It doesn't mean that they are unhappy or misguided or negative or lacking in some way.
It just means that they want to live closer to the ocean or move closer to their kids or experience Arizona or try out RV living or have other new experiences. IMHO, nothing wrong with that.

[mickey100]

We've lived in The Villages for eight years now (for six months during the winter).
While we love TV and think it's a wonderful place to winter, I don't think it's the only great place to live.
We've had a few good friends who happily lived in TV for a few years, and then sold their houses and moved on.
It doesn't mean that they are unhappy or misguided or negative or lacking in some way.
It just means that they want to live closer to the ocean or move closer to their kids or experience Arizona or try out RV living or have other new experiences. IMHO, nothing wrong with that.

:coolsmiley:

[2BNTV]

How about...TV is a wonderful-but-not-perfect place to retire, good for many, but not for everyone. :)

:agree:

Just because someone disagree with another point of view doesn't marginalize another's point of view. We all, are entitled, to our points of view.

That does not include attacking another person's point of view. Has some people been harsh, with other people. The answer is YES!!!! Does that make one person more right than another, NO!!!

We can all agree to disagree, respectfully!! Sometimes, that doesn't happen on TOTV! IMHO

Then, the admin steps in..........

[quidam65]

It's the squeaky wheel that gets greased. In the villages the other wheels don't hear very well.

That is so funny! We need a like function on these posts.

It is true, though. Most people who are happy with a good or service simply go about their lives (though some, if exceptionally pleased, will go to sites like this to make recommendations).

Unhappy customers, though, are far more vocal. They don't want others to have the same poor experiences they had, so they let everyone know how and why they are displeased. That's why you see and hear more complaints than compliments.

[patfla06]

Why would anyone ever complain about TV on this forum? All of you would jump down his throat just like you did the OP.

I can think of lots of things I do not like about the Villages but I am not going to share them with anyone here.

These problems will never go away but they are not going to change my happiness with living here.

Z

I have to agree.

The Villages is the best place I have ever lived.
That doesn't mean we cannot talk about what goes on in an
Honest way.

[simpkinp]

If you're unhappy here, you will be unhappy everywhere

[rubicon]

Most seniors, after they have made a decision to relocate to a retirement community, want to remain happy and content and be supported by affirmations as to the wisdom of their choice. They want to obtain and retain a positive outlook on life and enjoy it as best they can. They really do not want to hear the downside(s) or dwell on criticisms (valid or not) but delight in receiving comments on the merits of their selection and bask in the rewards during their golden years most have worked hard for a lifetime to achieve.

The success of The Villages speaks for itself with now over 100,000 residents, most of whom appear to be quite happy. Obviously there are those who are most happy when they are grumbling, griping and fault finding but thankfully they are few in number.

Hi manaboutown: Your comments pass my mind every time this topic reappears. Succinctly, stated you said "don't rain on my parade". And its why I rue the times I responded to this topic. So apparently I am a slow learner but eventually even I can catch on. So now in addition to never discussing politics or religion I will add The Villages to my list because all its going to do is get people to believe that you are just a malcontent; irrespective of the truth about your nature. And a parting thought is that I don't need to live in The Villages to be happy I just need to be living.

To all members of TOTV I pledge upon the penalty of being banished from this forum never to address the topic of The Villages again:D

Personal Best Regards:

[kathygeorge]

Based on TOTV and the online news comments/letters, there seem to be a lot of unhappy TVers. Could it be disillusionment in the reality of living here versus the vacation lifestyle visit that sold them on TV? Could it be TV changing from the "friendliest village" to just another overcrowded municipal area with a lot of stressed out people competing for limited resources? Or maybe, it has to do with world politics and global unrest. It's just a sense I have. I'm not sure it even exists. Just wondering if others sense this undercurrent of discontent.
We just listed our home here at Lake of the woods, in orange, Virginia. Have been planning on moving to the Villages for some time. Just recently heard about the Villages losing its charm and becoming a vacation destination instead of the retirement community it was billed up to be. Lake of the woods is much like that. It has always been up to us, the full time residents to work hard to keep the community on track for the full timers. Which means getting involved in the community which is something vacationers/ renters don't do. We are looking forward to our new adventure.

[tomwed]

We just listed our home here at Lake of the woods, in orange, Virginia. Have been planning on moving to the Villages for some time. Just recently heard about the Villages losing its charm and becoming a vacation destination instead of the retirement community it was billed up to be. Lake of the woods is much like that. It has always been up to us, the full time residents to work hard to keep the community on track for the full timers. Which means getting involved in the community which is something vacationers/ renters don't do. We are looking forward to our new adventure.
I use to have a beach condo in Cape May, NJ. The population was 5,000 but went up to 50,000 in the summer, a completely different experience.
In the villages it's not too different to me from one season to the next. Getting a tee off time for 4 is tough. Rounding out a foresome, not that bad.
I wouldn't worry too much about keeping the community on track, you will be too busy.

[jtdraig]

There is always that 10 percent who are unhappy all the time and, of those, about 2 percent are whiners, paper snipers, continual PITAs in everything. After a while they get identified and you ignore them. I'd say that 90% of the people who live here are content and relatively happy.

[4aces4me]

You will always have a small group who dislike anyplace they live in.

[kcrazorbackfan]

How about...TV is a wonderful-but-not-perfect place to retire, good for many but not for everyone. :)

:bigbow::bigbow:

[tomwed]

You will always have a small group who dislike anyplace they live in.
Yea, I hate those people. They're so negative.

[Buffalo Jim]

That's not a fair and balanced assessment but it does underscore why a resident should be reluctant to tell the truth because for sure someone is going to label them as this individual did above. So to all truth tellers be aware that some residents just can't handle the truth because you just might rain on their disneyworld parade .

The Truth remains : There are a small minority who live to whine , complain and demand that " there should be a new rule , new law , new regulation because........ of that person`s latest " issue of the day ".

The thing that makes me smile each time is realizing that some poor soul is stuck living 24/7 with such a "PITA " !
I see a large number of " slope shouldered men " walking behind a constantly loud effusive complainer who would appear to be that fellow`s spouse . [ and often appearing to be wearing some of his clothing and using his barber to " style her hair " !!
NOW LET IT RIP !! :popcorn::popcorn::popcorn:

[Maxman]

We've been here five years and love it.

[Skybo]

Based on TOTV and the online news comments/letters, there seem to be a lot of unhappy TVers. Could it be disillusionment in the reality of living here versus the vacation lifestyle visit that sold them on TV? Could it be TV changing from the "friendliest village" to just another overcrowded municipal area with a lot of stressed out people competing for limited resources? Or maybe, it has to do with world politics and global unrest. It's just a sense I have. I'm not sure it even exists. Just wondering if others sense this undercurrent of discontent.

Outlaw, I have a question for you. Are you basing your opinion that there are "a lot" of unhappy Villagers strictly on Internet posts/comments...or have you actually met and talked to unhappy people who live here...such as your neighbors, people you meet, etc.?

[maryanna630]

Please, Rubicon, don't cave now. I, for one, love to read your varied comments and absolutely appreciate you taking the time to post. Variety is the spice of life and I am more than capable of making my own decisions and creating my own happiness in life....don't stop now.

[Chi-Town]

Hi manaboutown: Your comments pass my mind every time this topic reappears. Succinctly, stated you said "don't rain on my parade". And its why I rue the times I responded to this topic. So apparently I am a slow learner but eventually even I can catch on. So now in addition to never discussing politics or religion I will add The Villages to my list because all its going to do is get people to believe that you are just a malcontent; irrespective of the truth about your nature. And a parting thought is that I don't need to live in The Villages to be happy I just need to be living.

To all members of TOTV I pledge upon the penalty of being banished from this forum never to address the topic of The Villages again:D

Personal Best Regards:
Just like the Terminator, you'll be back.

[dholley76]

We are looking carefully at the Villages and will be there in August to do the lifestyle visit. but in our research, we have heard that due to the continued growth of TV, many of the activities are very crowded, and difficult to get into. One person said that to get into activities like Zumba, or water aerobics, or card games, etc. often one would have to get to the event an hour early and wait in line as they are first come, first served. This is during the snowbird season from Nov. to April, when there are numerous rentals. Can anyone comment on the validity of this statement? Thanks,

[Skybo]

We are looking carefully at the Villages and will be there in August to do the lifestyle visit. but in our research, we have heard that due to the continued growth of TV, many of the activities are very crowded, and difficult to get into. One person said that to get into activities like Zumba, or water aerobics, or card games, etc. often one would have to get to the event an hour early and wait in line as they are first come, first served. This is during the snowbird season from Nov. to April, when there are numerous rentals. Can anyone comment on the validity of this statement? Thanks,

Yes, I would say that is true, for the most popular activities. However, Jan-Mar are actually the busiest months. I wouldn't consider Nov, Dec or even Apr that crowded.

[pbkmaine]

The most crowded class I attend in the winter is yoga. I get there about an hour early, get my card scanned, get a ticket, put my yoga mat in line at the door, then sit and visit with the others who are waiting. A half an hour before the class, the door opens, we put our mats down, stretch and visit some more until the class starts. I am fine with this, considering that the class is free.

[DARFAP]

The 10% rule: 10% of the people do 90% of the complainimg.

[Justus]

Cut the OP some slack, folks. He had a thought and shared it with what he perceived to be open-minded group, in hopes of getting some responsible and thoughtful feedback. Then the killing of the messenger occurred. Is there any wonder that one might hesitate to be so forthcoming in the future?

[F16 1UB]

We are looking carefully at the Villages and will be there in August to do the lifestyle visit. but in our research, we have heard that due to the continued growth of TV, many of the activities are very crowded, and difficult to get into. One person said that to get into activities like Zumba, or water aerobics, or card games, etc. often one would have to get to the event an hour early and wait in line as they are first come, first served. This is during the snowbird season from Nov. to April, when there are numerous rentals. Can anyone comment on the validity of this statement? Thanks,

Water aerobics at COLONY is the least busy from Nov thru Apr and is NO problem getting in. The outside air temps are lower and class rarely fills to capacity of 85 even though the water temps are in the low 80's. Yesterday, July 31st, it was filled by 8:40 AM.....this is coming from the horses fill in the blank. :spoken: 5 yr instructor at Colony. C ya when you get here.

[outlaw]

The Truth remains : There are a small minority who live to whine , complain and demand that " there should be a new rule , new law , new regulation because........ of that person`s latest " issue of the day ".

The thing that makes me smile each time is realizing that some poor soul is stuck living 24/7 with such a "PITA " !
I see a large number of " slope shouldered men " walking behind a constantly loud effusive complainer who would appear to be that fellow`s spouse . [ and often appearing to be wearing some of his clothing and using his barber to " style her hair " !!
NOW LET IT RIP !! :popcorn::popcorn::popcorn:

It was nice knowing you buffalo.....

[outlaw]

Outlaw, I have a question for you. Are you basing your opinion that there are "a lot" of unhappy Villagers strictly on Internet posts/comments...or have you actually met and talked to unhappy people who live here...such as your neighbors, people you meet, etc.?

I guess it is mainly TOTV and local news comments. Could be squeaky wheel syndrome. Maybe it is the men I see that, because of their age and facial expression, seem like they are mad, unhappy. But when I interact with them, they usually are nice and accommodating. I honestly have only met a couple of people who were nasty or did not seem happy.

[outlaw]

We are looking carefully at the Villages and will be there in August to do the lifestyle visit. but in our research, we have heard that due to the continued growth of TV, many of the activities are very crowded, and difficult to get into. One person said that to get into activities like Zumba, or water aerobics, or card games, etc. often one would have to get to the event an hour early and wait in line as they are first come, first served. This is during the snowbird season from Nov. to April, when there are numerous rentals. Can anyone comment on the validity of this statement? Thanks,

Waiting in line is a fact. The down side to all-you-can-eat buffets is that you always get a lot of people who want everything. A lot of people down here come from bigger, more crowded places. They don't seem to mind waiting in line. I always chuckle when I pass by the sports pools and see the water volleyball people lined up 30 to 45 minutes prior to their activity scheduled time. Here they are; finally retired, and they have to stand in line for 45 minutes just to get a spot. Same with yoga, table tennis, some card games...

[mulligan]

IMHO since I moved here 4 years ago, the developer has failed to match the growth with the amenities. 2,400 clubs sounds real good until somebody actually tries to join one (sorry, we have 161 people on a waiting list). Try for a ( exec) tee-time in February early enough to actually be able to finish before dark. Park within 1/4 mile of a square on market night. Is TV utopia? no Is TV a fairly nice place to live ? You betcha, but it's not as nice as it was 4 years ago.

[mickey100]

IMHO since I moved here 4 years ago, the developer has failed to match the growth with the amenities. 2,400 clubs sounds real good until somebody actually tries to join one (sorry, we have 161 people on a waiting list). Try for a ( exec) tee-time in February early enough to actually be able to finish before dark. Park within 1/4 mile of a square on market night. Is TV utopia? no Is TV a fairly nice place to live ? You betcha, but it's not as nice as it was 4 years ago.

Many people would agree with you, myself included. Its a great place, but not perfect. There are certain compromises to be made.

[Arctic Fox]

to get into activities like Zumba...often one would have to get to the event an hour early and wait in line as they are first come, first served...during the snowbird season

There is always room for you at Scottish Country Dance - La Hacienda, Thursdays at 11.30am during snowbird season.

For some reason they give the 18 of us the Carmen Miranda Room, which accommodates about 3,000 people.

Good fun though, and always a few beginners learning the steps.

[outlaw]

There is always room for you at Scottish Country Dance - La Hacienda, Thursdays at 11.30am during snowbird season.

For some reason they give the 18 of us the Carmen Miranda Room, which accommodates about 3,000 people.

Good fun though, and always a few beginners learning the steps.

I have a feeling there will always be room for you at Scottish Country Dance.

[Arctic Fox]

I have a feeling there will always be room for you at Scottish Country Dance.

It's not that bad - we don't play the bagpipes!

[outlaw]

It's not that bad - we don't play the bagpipes!

Just kidding.

[Sandtrap328]

If a person who knew nothing about The Villages would only get their viewpoint based on posts from TOTV, it would be very slanted toward the unhappy Villagers side. Lots of very negative posting and on the Political forum, very nasty postings. Stay away from there!

I have lived here about 6 years. Mrs. Trap and I go to either Lake Sumter Landing or Spanish Springs at least once a week for the entertainment. We enjoy talking to others at the squares and never have had a griper or whiner that we encountered there.

I play golf a couple of times a week, have very little problem getting executive course tee times even in snowbird time, and have met a couple of gripers but only a couple.

The Villages is a great place to live; wonderful amenities, and the Developer has done a stupendous job in planning and maintaining thiw wonderful place.

[firebiker]

My new mantra...Don't judge the many by the few.

[Barefoot]

Is TV utopia? no . Is TV a fairly nice place to live ? You betcha, but it's not as nice as it was 4 years ago.

I play golf a couple of times a week, have very little problem getting executive course tee times even in snowbird time, and have met a couple of gripers but only a couple.
The Villages is a great place to live; wonderful amenities, and the Developer has done a stupendous job in planning and maintaining thiw wonderful place.

I agree with both comments. TV is getting more congested, true. But why should the Developer stop building just because we've secured our spot in the best retirement community in North America?

We are only in TV during "high" season, and we haven't experienced any problems getting tee times if we're willing to be open-minded about where and when we play. Also, if one is willing to be flexible and avoid the 6PM- 7PM "we have to eat now" surge, IMHO, there is no problem getting into restaurants.

[Greg Nelson]

Let's face it, Florida is crowded. The only part we found that was not that way was where no one wanted to be. Arizona and Texas are the same way. I'm not sure about Cali, but would bet it is the same way too.....

[Arctic Fox]

Just kidding.

Too late, Outlaw - you've got to come along now for at least one dance :-)

Kilt optional

[outlaw]

Too late, Outlaw - you've got to come along now for at least one dance :-)

Kilt optional

I appreciate the offer, but I'm more into South Western 1800s Scottish Urban Dance. I'm happy to report that our club now has 5300 members, some in good standing.

[CathyandSteveG]

I have kept up with this thread and i want to share something.

I don't live in the villages....I have visited...I research...and i participate on this forum.

Yesterday...we went to look at the only 55 and over lifestyle community in Missouri called Heritage of Hawk Ridge. It is a Dell Webb Pulte community. There is a 9 hole par 3 executive style golf course, a 10,000 sq ft. clubhouse, a pro shop and a grill, an outdoor pool and 2 tennis courts, a fitness center that had a weight machine and 2 treadmills. There are 14,000 residents. There are 6 models to choose from. The HOA fee is $235 per month and this includes lawn care and snow removal.

the homes are lovely.....and yet the entire time i kept saying to Steve....it isn't the villages....i don't like it....this is not like the villages.

I tell you this because I want you to know that...while no place is perfect....I believe with all of my heart...the the villages is a very special place. It isn't for everybody....and that's a good thing. Maybe sometimes we all need to take a step back and really look at what we have and learn to appreciate what we have all over again.

I cannot wait to be able to call the villages my home.....
my signature contains the link to the listing of our home which includes pictures. I love my beautiful home.....but i think the villages will be a perfect retirement fit for us....and those of you who already live there and get to enjoy it...please know i am so VERY jealous!

[Bogie Shooter]

IMHO since I moved here 4 years ago, the developer has failed to match the growth with the amenities. 2,400 clubs sounds real good until somebody actually tries to join one (sorry, we have 161 people on a waiting list). Try for a ( exec) tee-time in February early enough to actually be able to finish before dark. Park within 1/4 mile of a square on market night. Is TV utopia? no Is TV a fairly nice place to live ? You betcha, but it's not as nice as it was 4 years ago.

Been here 15 years and never had trouble gettin a reasonable tee time in the first quarter of the year.....this is just easy whining!

[Bogie Shooter]

If a person who knew nothing about The Villages would only get their viewpoint based on posts from TOTV, it would be very slanted toward the unhappy Villagers side. Lots of very negative posting and on the Political forum, very nasty postings. Stay away from there!

I have lived here about 6 years. Mrs. Trap and I go to either Lake Sumter Landing or Spanish Springs at least once a week for the entertainment. We enjoy talking to others at the squares and never have had a griper or whiner that we encountered there.

I play golf a couple of times a week, have very little problem getting executive course tee times even in snowbird time, and have met a couple of gripers but only a couple.

The Villages is a great place to live; wonderful amenities, and the Developer has done a stupendous job in planning and maintaining thiw wonderful place.

I agree.

[cynjim]

If they are unhappy move. Let the rest of us remain happy.

[blueeagle65]

IMO the malcontents that do all the moaning would do so regardless where they were. They seem to be unhappy people that are at home being miserable and would like to bring everyone else over to their 'dark side'. Just personality (or lack of) disorders.

[xcaligirl]

Unhappy grumpy people seem to voice their opinion every day. They try to stir up the pot and get everybody grumpy and hateful. I pity them since they are missing out on a lot that TV and LIFE has to offer. We've been here for 11 months and still can't get the smile off our faces. Honestly, I've never been happier. We've from California, never moved more than a 30 mile radius from our first home so I was a little worried about moving to FL. I only wish we would've or could've moved to TV much sooner. Some people would've be happy anywhere or they thrive on being miserable ~ don't listen to them and live your own life!

[mcewingg]

We love it in The Villages. Our only regret is as UK residents we can't spend more time there:a040:

[dfm1697]

When I lived in Southern California ('89 to '03), people used to complain. I would tell them not to let the door hit them on the way out. Most loved the weather and wouldn't leave until their job transferred them. The same with TV. I never had it so good!

[Geoff Grundy]

Based on TOTV and the online news comments/letters, there seem to be a lot of unhappy TVers. Could it be disillusionment in the reality of living here versus the vacation lifestyle visit that sold them on TV? Could it be TV changing from the "friendliest village" to just another overcrowded municipal area with a lot of stressed out people competing for limited resources? Or maybe, it has to do with world politics and global unrest. It's just a sense I have. I'm not sure it even exists. Just wondering if others sense this undercurrent of discontent.
l live in the UK but visit regularly.... its obviously a very controlled environment lots of you can or can,t do,s there are lots of people who are not happy unless they are on one committee or another (how sad in a way), and why was the murder last year kept out of the Press? adverse publicity not required? the truth must out for the good of all.

[golfing eagles]

[QUOTE=CathyandSteveG;1094744]I have kept up with this thread and i want to share something.

I don't live in the villages....I have visited...I research...and i participate on this forum.

Yesterday...we went to look at the only 55 and over lifestyle community in Missouri called Heritage of Hawk Ridge. It is a Dell Webb Pulte community. There is a 9 hole par 3 executive style golf course, a 10,000 sq ft. clubhouse, a pro shop and a grill, an outdoor pool and 2 tennis courts, a fitness center that had a weight machine and 2 treadmills. There are 14,000 residents. There are 6 models to choose from. The HOA fee is $235 per month and this includes lawn care and snow removal.

This is pretty much what I found in other Florida retirement communities before buying in TV---a single golf course , a single clubhouse with a restaurant, and all activities are only what is offered at the clubhouse. Grocery, gas, shopping all miles away, usually in highly congested traffic.
Del Webb Missouri---9 holes for 14,000 residents??? = 1 hole/ 1555 people.
TV---609 holes = 1/123 full time and 1/189 high season---and we complain about getting a tee time? Plus, their golfing season is much shorter so when you calculate rounds/year it is even worse. But, while the amenity fee is higher, it does include SNOW REMOVAL!!!! yuk---I'd much rather deal with dog poo, roundabouts, saved seats at the squares, a few illegally cut trees, tight fairway lies, buses picking up people in the square parking lots, garden gnome tattletales, cart paths not striped, and all the other "complaints" we see on TOTV so often.
88 days until we move in FT, and counting

[koala]

We've been here 11 years and still LOVE it! We have friends that have followed us here and we are all VERY happy with the lifestyle!!!

[Eugene Hite]

No one mentioned the "Snowbirds". Hmmm!

[banjobob]

Mostly I agree some people are just unhappy always. You see it all the time people with perpetual frowns or scowl on their faces.

[gmracket]

I find people who are unhappy here would be unhappy anywhere. Sure the Villages has gotten larger and for some long time residents this may cause some concerns but overall I think the majority love it here. We have been here over 10 years and it was the best move we ever made. Moral of the story if you don't like it here move

[outlaw]

Mostly I agree some people are just unhappy always. You see it all the time people with perpetual frowns or scowl on their faces.

I think that is where some of my sense of unhappy TVers comes from. But then, I think, maybe the frown or scowl is really more about aging and sagging skin/muscles. Or maybe a particular person has a lot of chronic pain, or is alone after a spouse passed away. I do notice the frequent ambulance runs; I joke about the 5 oclock early bird dinner special ambulance run, a frequent reminder of our mortality. Or how about the Monday morning ambulance siren signaling another heart attack. The all too frequent hospitalization of an acquaintance. Death is in the air. One cannot escape the constant reminders of impending illness and death. But I guess that is common to all 55+ retirement developments. I think I'm going back to bed; I don't feel very good.

[maryhall66]

Dear God, I'm so happy and contented here since2001. I cringe at the thought of moving back North. Yes' things change when so many people swell the ranks. We are still so very safe here in TV.

[ggerskine]

Based on TOTV and the online news comments/letters, there seem to be a lot of unhappy TVers. Could it be disillusionment in the reality of living here versus the vacation lifestyle visit that sold them on TV? Could it be TV changing from the "friendliest village" to just another overcrowded municipal area with a lot of stressed out people competing for limited resources? Or maybe, it has to do with world politics and global unrest. It's just a sense I have. I'm not sure it even exists. Just wondering if others sense this undercurrent of discontent.

I have been here full time since 2001 and still pinch myself when we are driving around on the Golf Cart. Are we lucky too be here or what? Love it and all it has to offer. You have to live to OVER a 100 years old to do it all. I love the diversity of people and the kindness of many. Remember if you are unhappy for any reason you can move. A happy person on the inside finds happiness where they land. It is all up to you to enjoy!

[Bogie Shooter]

l live in the UK but visit regularly.... its obviously a very controlled environment lots of you can or can,t do,s there are lots of people who are not happy unless they are on one committee or another (how sad in a way), and why was the murder last year kept out of the Press? adverse publicity not required? the truth must out for the good of all.

What murder are you referring to?

[Bogie Shooter]

No one mentioned the "Snowbirds". Hmmm!

Glad they are a part of TV!

[sunnypat]

It is becoming overcrowded with all this building continuing! The dining n shopping places are impossible due to crowds!

[Arctic Fox]

I'm happy to report that our club now has 5300 members, some in good standing.

Maybe we should swap rooms?

[Bogie Shooter]

No one mentioned the "Snowbirds". Hmmm!
//////

[Bogie Shooter]

It is becoming overcrowded with all this building continuing! The dining n shopping places are impossible due to crowds!

Does this mean you are happy or unhappy?

[gardeniagirl]

Based on TOTV and the online news comments/letters, there seem to be a lot of unhappy TVers. Could it be disillusionment in the reality of living here versus the vacation lifestyle visit that sold them on TV? Could it be TV changing from the "friendliest village" to just another overcrowded municipal area with a lot of stressed out people competing for limited resources? Or maybe, it has to do with world politics and global unrest. It's just a sense I have. I'm not sure it even exists. Just wondering if others sense this undercurrent of discontent.

Owned my home since 2003. Many changes in the years....density, traffic,
overbuilding by the Villages, which was controlled to the market until
the past several years. Facilities for people in the Villages, and those from outside who use them, is very different now. If you want a reality check,
look on the Villages, and MLS sites to see the number of homes for sale.
Look at how many are empty, buyers have long times on market and have gone. Don't quip a good house at a good price sells.....when there's a glut, it's called supply and demand, about 8 months inventory now, so that drives prices down, our economic system. In 2004, houses were sold within a week. Unfortunately, glut and American greed have sown a seed in the Villages. It is not negative, it is reality.
It also depends on what you are comparing it to.. also have a home in NC,( lived in Callif. and Arizona yrs. ago) NC is my favorite. Lived in Lakeland, Fla. during school years. For everyone who is happy, don't have to defend the Villages...stay and love it. Years ago, eveyone loved it. For those who sense a difference, yes, many feel as you do. Respect that not everyone does now.

[Bonny]

It is becoming overcrowded with all this building continuing! The dining n shopping places are impossible due to crowds!
What places are you referring to ?

[Buffalo Jim]

Does this mean you are happy or unhappy?


I believe it means in the words of that great " Yogi " Berra that :

" No one goes there anymore ' cause it`s too crowded " ! :)

[NotGolfer]

Oh.my.gosh!!! What ever are you referring to re: malcontents??? The only curmudgeons I've experienced are on social media and people stirring the pot. We've been here 6 years and never have regretted our decision to come. I think if folks focus on how their "cup is half empty" then most certainly they'll be unhappy BUT I, for one, haven't met anyone who is.

Someone on this thread mentioned how crowded it is an impossible it is to be served (this was posted today)...I'm not sure what planet they live on but we eat out 2 to 3 times a week and walk right in wherever we go and get seated immediately. During "high season" we just work around the the times by going early. As for traffic...then go to south Florida OR Atlanta or any large city and compare it with here. Our traffic isn't all that bad considering those places!!!

[gardeniagirl]

Winter/spring is overcrowded...my friends and I had to eat at a KFC after church to avoid hours of wait in TV. Still not a KFC fan.....

[gardeniagirl]

Oh.my.gosh!!! What ever are you referring to re: malcontents??? The only curmudgeons I've experienced are on social media and people stirring the pot. We've been here 6 years and never have regretted our decision to come. I think if folks focus on how their "cup is half empty" then most certainly they'll be unhappy BUT I, for one, haven't met anyone who is.

Someone on this thread mentioned how crowded it is an impossible it is to be served (this was posted today)...I'm not sure what planet they live on but we eat out 2 to 3 times a week and walk right in wherever we go and get seated immediately. During "high season" we just work around the the times by going early. As for traffic...then go to south Florida OR Atlanta or any large city and compare it with here. Our traffic isn't all that bad considering those places!!!

I don't want to go to south Florida or Atlanta....TV is not an Atlanta or large city....so what why the comments "as the curmudgeons, and "people stirring the pot"....can you show respect for others with a different opinion than your own???? some manners, maturity, and tolerance is necessary to have discussions.

[tlsmbartz]

Hello!

My wife and I are moving to the villages in two weeks! WHOO HOO!! :a040: We've been working towards this goal for 3 years, and now it's here. I got a chance at an early retirement and jumped at the chance. That being said, we've always believed that a persons happiness...or lack of it... is a personal choice. I'm not saying that we see the world through "rose colored glasses"....but we prefer to be positive. We only get one chance on earth to live the life God gave us. Let's enjoy it! You'll recognize us if you see us. We'll be the ones with the smiles from ear to ear.

[bomanm]

I have lived in the Villages for 6 years and watched it grow. We had nice friendly people living here. As the Villages has grown, the so has attitudes of the people. This is no longer the Friendliess Hometown place to live but just another town where everyone does for themselves. I see the same rudeness and yelling and bickering over the most ridiculous things because retirees think they have or expect a sense of entitlement for living in the Villages. This is not Park Avenue. There are people that live in trailers home to premier homes. They just like to put on the pretense of that because they are a Villager and put on the airs in public and be snobby and it is distasteful. I as a Villager I see this all the time. Come on people, were is your sense of decentcy & respect for others.

[Bonny]

Hello!

My wife and I are moving to the villages in two weeks! WHOO HOO!! :a040: We've been working towards this goal for 3 years, and now it's here. I got a chance at an early retirement and jumped at the chance. That being said, we've always believed that a persons happiness...or lack of it... is a personal choice. I'm not saying that we see the world through "rose colored glasses"....but we prefer to be positive. We only get one chance on earth to live the life God gave us. Let's enjoy it! You'll recognize us if you see us. We'll be the ones with the smiles from ear to ear.
You will love it here. It's an awesome place.
And trust me, you won't have to go to KFC after church. Lots of places you can go. :D

[SST778]

I think there is a definite sense of discontent in Villagers now. I have lived here for 8 years and have seen such a big change in the attitudes of residents and I do think it is because TV has gotten so much bigger. Too many people and it has lost its small town atmosphere. It also seems the residents have very little voice in changes that are being made that contribute to our stress. Doubt if it is possible to get back to being “the friendliest hometown”.

[asianthree]

We've been coming since 2007. Even in January we have had very few problems finding a restaurant to eat at. Course we usually go later since were a little younger you know that eight-ish dinner. Our house backs up to a road now and I don't find the traffic in January much different then in April. People still wave as they go by and seem to be laughing and talking as we catch some of their conversation.

[Bonny]

We've been here over 15 years. I don't see any change in people or their attitudes. It has nothing to do with the amount of people here. We have always had happy positive people and those who have a hard time being happy & those few that love to stir the pot and get a rise out of people. That's the way it is in the entire world. I see it everywhere.
I will continue to be a happy positive person. Keeps my blood pressure down too. :icon_wink:

[DonH57]

I believe if individuals are not happy here, chances are they wouldn't be happy anywhere they lived and always have something to complain about. Since living here we've never had to go to places like KFC to eat rather than a sunday brunch or stuck in traffic. Sure, there were times we may had to wait a few for a table but we don't eat dinner at 4:00 pm either. Some just stress themselves for no reason over the most trivial thing. Relax and live.

[dittofred1]

For those that are unhappy, there is a simple solution - move. We have been here three weeks and are loving it. We are so busy, our days are flying by. We have met some incredibly nice people. And for those who are not so nice, we simply don't have to hang with them. We create our own happiness!

[Bonny]

For those that are unhappy, there is a simple solution - move. We have been here three weeks and are loving it. We are so busy, our days are flying by. We have met some incredibly nice people. And for those who are not so nice, we simply don't have to hang with them. We create our own happiness!
Glad you're loving it !!
I always say. if someone doesn't like it here, they should move somewhere where they will be happy. :)

[gsaltness]

Lived in TV since 2006 and could not be happier! My experience is that unhappy people will be unhappy anywhere. So much to do and truly friendly people. Oh yes, there will be a few but that's true anywhere. Wouldn't live any other location. :coolsmiley:

[Buffalo Ray]

Basically very happy here, however I believe that TV is being way over built without consideration for additional infrastructure. The Fruitland Park addition could be a disaster. How will all of the new people connect to TV? It looks like the Colony tunnel is it.
Also, there are the Anonymous Crusaders here that call in the "Deed Violations" because they are offended by an 8" statue of a frog or a bunny. We have this type of person here in Tamarind Grove. Calls in 30 houses at a time. I doubt that she is happy as she just drives around looking for violations. (Yes, SHE. We have seen her and we are close to pinpointing her).

[debzaranti]

I agree with angiefox! We've lived here 7.5 years & moving here was the best decision of our lives! There will always be issues & problems, no matter in which community you reside, but looking back on all our previous residences, The Villages comes as close to our ideal as is possible in an imperfect world. Also, Angie just so happens to be one of the many wonderful new friends I've made since moving here! ;-) Ang! LOL!

[cacjac]

Some folks are unhappy where ever they are. Don't ruin things for the rest of us.

5 years &I still love TV

[Bonny]

Basically very happy here, however I believe that TV is being way over built without consideration for additional infrastructure. The Fruitland Park addition could be a disaster. How will all of the new people connect to TV? It looks like the Colony tunnel is it.
Also, there are the Anonymous Crusaders here that call in the "Deed Violations" because they are offended by an 8" statue of a frog or a bunny. We have this type of person here in Tamarind Grove. Calls in 30 houses at a time. I doubt that she is happy as she just drives around looking for violations. (Yes, SHE. We have seen her and we are close to pinpointing her).
If people "choose" to live in the Fruitland Park area, they will know before they buy, they may have to drive a car.
As for the crusaders turning in statues, no one would even have to worry about that if they were following the rules of our deed restrictions.

[outlaw]

A quick analysis reveals we have two groups; malcontents and Stepford couples. So, on average, we're pretty normal.

[bella2272]

We have been at The Villages 2 years and we love it. I do have to admit it is more fun after the snow birds leave. I have found some of them to be very rude but that would be found any where people exist in crowded situations like our squares.

[averda]

My husband and I built a home in Gilchrist East 2 years ago and would come to TV about every 3 months for 10 days. We permanently moved to TV July 1....4 weeks ago. In all our visits and the short time we've lived here we haven't met anyone who doesn't love it here. A lady I spoke to the other day said "when we go on vacation we can't wait to get back". How awesome is that? If someone is unhappy here they have a choice....move!!

[bomanm]

That is great to be so optimistic. When I drive and walk around glancing & observing people I do not see anyone smiling or waving @ each other unless they are in their on group's. That use to be once upon a time here. Everyone is always in a rush and pushy. Just like every big city. The Villages is no longer different. Wake up.

[Bonny]

That is great to be so optimistic. When I drive and walk around glancing & observing people I do not see anyone smiling or waving @ each other unless they are in their on group's. That use to be once upon a time here. Everyone is always in a rush and pushy. Just like every big city. The Villages is no longer different. Wake up.
I see people smiling, waving & giving a friendly nod all the time.

[Polar Bear]

...Everyone is always in a rush and pushy. Just like every big city. The Villages is no longer different. Wake up.
TV is like a big city? Wow...love it or hate it I cannot see this comparison at all. I'm not sure who's the one asleep.

[Buffalo Ray]

It's a Golf Cart Community.

Either way, Colony Plaza will be swamped with hundreds more carts or cars, though I doubt they will take carts.

And hopefully, they will follow the rules, like stop signs, 15 MPH speed limits and such and avoid the dreaded 8" frog.

[Villager Joyce]

That is great to be so optimistic. When I drive and walk around glancing & observing people I do not see anyone smiling or waving @ each other unless they are in their on group's. That use to be once upon a time here. Everyone is always in a rush and pushy. Just like every big city. The Villages is no longer different. Wake up.

This is the first time I have ever said this...if you believe this, perhaps it is time to move elsewhere.

[dbussone]

That is great to be so optimistic. When I drive and walk around glancing & observing people I do not see anyone smiling or waving @ each other unless they are in their on group's. That use to be once upon a time here. Everyone is always in a rush and pushy. Just like every big city. The Villages is no longer different. Wake up.


I'm guessing you've never lived in a large (really large) city. To say that TV is no different from New York, Boston, etc is really ridiculous...at best

[Bonny]

Like I always say, some people just like to stir the pot to get a rise out of people.

[Lee Stroud]

The story is told of a traveler who, on his way to a city, asked a resident from the city what the city was like, if the people were friendly, etc. In his response, the resident asked the traveler what the people were like in the city from which he was traveling. He said they were a mean, stingy, unhappy lot. The resident of the city said I think you’ll find those here to be the same.
Another traveler happened to stop and ask the same resident the same question, to which he replied with the likewise. But this time the traveler said the folks in the city which he had left were warm, friendly and generous. The resident of the city replied I think you’ll find those here to be the same.

I have found the Villagers--less the one or two percent--to be as happy as they have ever been and delighted at their decision to move here.

“No matter where you go, there you are.”

[patbbb]

In my entire time living in The Villages, I've met one couple who say they do not like living here, yet they still live here, so go figure. I wouldn't take the discussions on TOTV as a indication that people are disenchanted with this community. Those are often about a specific situation, and last for a specific period of time, and certainly not everyone agrees. A place can be fantastic and still not be perfect. And if it isn't perfect, then it's up to those of us that love it and enjoy it to try to make it so.


For the record- I am a Villager resident for well 10 years and agree with the original post. While I'm happy living here for the most part, the original developer, Mr. Harold Schwartz, treated us residents as the most important and put us first. Bless him for the lifestyle he created and he was entitled to every dollar of the millions which he was rewarded.

His successors appear to have placed money making up top. The facilities- rec centers, athletic fields, golf courses, etc. are insufficient to accommodate the the number of residents they've brought here with our help. One often cannot get into an activity because of the overcrowding, nor get a reasonable tee time. The building continues without addition of sufficient golf holes or other facilities, unless we can force same thru our local CDD Boards or the POA. Many of the residents are unaware of actions by the developer over the years which negatively affected the community. There were good reasons why the developer agreed to pay $40 million plus to settle the law suit. Examples of his greed are the wall constructed in the middle of the night blocking cart access to Lowes & the East Medical Campus, the order restricting protesters from the street in front of the sales office in Spanish Springs, lack of cooperation on the siding and roofing failures, etc., etc. The POA Bulletins document these and other problems over the years for those interested in pursuing the subject!

Because of how the bonding was set up by the developer for his monetary advantage, we have paid almost ONE HALF MILLION DOLLARS in legal fees alone, to date, fighting the IRS suit which still has not ended. This amount excludes the cost of thousands of hours expended for staff time required. Further there are numerous examples of how he set up to have us pay for maintenance of his commercial endeavors such as the retention pond entirely on the Lopez Legacy golf course.

Yes the developer has done many good things. But, each of us must weigh whether we should have to fight so vigorously for the things for which we pay.

[batman911]

Complaining is not the same as being unhappy. My wife complains about slow play on the golf course, rude people, and anything that is not perfect to her taste (including me) but she would not leave The Villages for anything. Happy as a lark here. We had a saying in the Navy, "A grumbling (word changed) sailor is a happy sailor", and i have found it to apply to TV as well. Complaining about imperfection does not directly translate to unhappy. I believe most residents are usually to busy playing to post complaints on this forum, I know I am except when it rains too much to play pickleball.

[Flora13]

I am very discontented. I has become so crowded that people don't wave to each other anymore. During Season forget about going out to eat! Also, it has become so expensive to shop, dine or even have a few cocktails with friends to catch up. I almost never do anything inside The Villages anymore I go outside where the prices are friendlier. Streets = crowded, golf courses = crowded, restaurants = crowded. Not much left to like except Life Long Learning College.

[Bonny]

I'm surprised it took this long to get to the "greed of the developer" !!. We knew Harold and used to chat with him once or twice a week usually at Cafe Ole. He would be very proud of the Villages !!! If he was still here, I doubt it would be much different than it is now.
He had a vision of how big this place would be and the opportunities. As with every business person in the world, Harold enjoyed making money while he created this awesome place. Same with the Morse family. And to all of them, a great big :bigbow:

[Bonny]

To those who think it's too crowded and not friendly, find another place to live. Why would anyone stay somewhere they weren't happy. I don't get it !!!

[Villager Joyce]

I am very discontented. I has become so crowded that people don't wave to each other anymore. During Season forget about going out to eat! Also, it has become so expensive to shop, dine or even have a few cocktails with friends to catch up. I almost never do anything inside The Villages anymore I go outside where the prices are friendlier. Streets = crowded, golf courses = crowded, restaurants = crowded. Not much left to like except Life Long Learning College.

You have been a member a long time for this to be your first post. How long have you lived in TV?

[Bonny]

I am very discontented. I has become so crowded that people don't wave to each other anymore. During Season forget about going out to eat! Also, it has become so expensive to shop, dine or even have a few cocktails with friends to catch up. I almost never do anything inside The Villages anymore I go outside where the prices are friendlier. Streets = crowded, golf courses = crowded, restaurants = crowded. Not much left to like except Life Long Learning College.
Just curious what places you are going to where you get cheaper cocktails?

[bomanm]

The solution I keep hearing is, if your unhappy, move. These aren't apartments, you don't break your lease and just move. Maybe the rest of you just pick up and move like a bunch of ants but I stay put. I just don't tolerate inflated egos. That is what this community has drawn. I just shake my head and walk away from that kind of behavior. Move yes, step aside from the jerk.

[golfing eagles]

If you're happy (99% of us), stay happy. If you're the 1 % unhappy, explore your options. No need to try to recruit anyone to your side.

[Bonny]

I guess I just wonder why people who are somewhat new in the last few years complain about how many people there are. They must have seen it before they bought here, or noticed that people weren't waving to them as they looked around at the houses..

[Walt.]

That is great to be so optimistic. When I drive and walk around glancing & observing people I do not see anyone smiling or waving @ each other unless they are in their on group's. That use to be once upon a time here. Everyone is always in a rush and pushy. Just like every big city. The Villages is no longer different. Wake up.

I still haven't figured out the obsession with smiling and waving at strangers and reading negative things into their failure to reciprocate.

"Am I just meeting a lot of people too good to wave back or are there a lot of unhappy people?"

Just like every big city? Spend a few days in Miami and say that...

[John_W]

If you want a wake-up call of big city living, just drive down the turnpike about 55 miles and exit onto 441 north about a mile on the right will be Florida Mall. We made the mistake visiting this past Saturday. I guess with the rain, everybody decided to go there. We've been to Florida Mall about a dozen times the past four years, but this past Saturday was the worse.

First we drove around for several minutes in a downpour just to find a parking spot, so were several dozen other cars on every side of the building. We finally found a space outside of Dillards which we would normally never park at to enter the mall. If you go into Dillards in Ocala or Gainesville you would usually find nobody there. This Dillards had crowds like they were giving stuff away. It's probably one of the most expensive department stores around, it makes Macys look cheap.

Once we got through Dillards and into the mall, it was worse than Black Friday, which we have done, it was worse than Christmas season. You'll also find that if English is your first language, then you're a minority. I've figured out that since Puerto Rico is a short plan ride away from Orlando, most of the people in PR most visit there monthly along with tourist from every South American country.

The old food court has been closed and they have built a new one that opened in June, it is huge and yet was still packed and tables were hard to find. One of the negatives is Dairy Queen did not make it from the old food court to the new one, maybe the rent was too high. There must be 30 places to get food and yet everyone had a huge line.

After making our walking trip through Florida Mall we couldn't wait to get on the road and back to TV. From now on, the Oaks Mall in Gainesville will be our permanent big mall away from here. It has many of the same stores, and have 5 anchor stores and is almost never crowded except at Christmas time.

If the crowds weren't enough, Florida Mall even has it's own hotel attached to the mall. Also nearby are two huge outlet malls on each end of International Drive.

http://orlando-hotels.travelape.com/wp-content/gallery/the-florida-hotel-and-conference-center-at-the-florida-mall/ORL_ADAM-exter-1.jpg

[outlaw]

I wonder if the posters that insist they are happy are really in denial. I'm not saying they are. I'm just wondering if they are. Could it be they are disappointed, and they can't admit to themselves that they made a mistake, and may even feel trapped with a mortgage that is upside down? Maybe the posters that are being critical of TV, or honest about their feelings regarding TV, are actually the ones that are totally free and happy with their life because they are not concerned about making a mistake or being wrong about something, but in fact, embrace different perspectives and changes in their own opinion about things? Or maybe not...just wondering.

[scotlandqueenie]

After renting here for just six weeks I bought a house. I really loved it. I am home on Long Island right now awaiting the soon-to-be birth of my first grandchild and will stay for awhile until papers are finalized. Although I will miss my family I cannot wait to start the next chapter in my life in The Villages.

[Grill Meister]

I am going on 11 years in TV and I love it. I would love, however, to have the atmosphere returned to what we experienced when I moved in. The developer was doing all they could in the way of amenities and entertainment to really see that we were living a fairy-tale lifestyle. Unfortunately, that attitude has changed quite a bit. When we moved in, the logistics were such that we could get around to all the places we wanted to drive with little impunity......now?, watch out! The golf courses were in immaculate condition....WOW....now?

I feel that the traffic problems will be solved when more merchants establish south on Hwy44, which will eliminate residents' south of 466A having to travel north for dining and shopping.

And....it is still "Florida's Friendliest Hometown"....that is until you get in the way of some golf cart driver.

[scotlandqueenie]

After renting here for six weeks I went ahead and bought a home. I am back at home on L.I. now awaiting the birth of my first grandchild but will soon return to my new home in TV. I met so many friendly and welcoming people that I cannot wait to start the next chapter in my life.

[outlaw]

[QUOTE=Walt.;1095245]I still haven't figured out the obsession with smiling and waving at strangers and reading negative things into their failure to reciprocate.

Really? When I say good morning to someone, I expect some response other than a stare-through-me kinda look. In the south, it is considered rude to not acknowledge someone's friendly gesture.

[tomwed]

I'm surprised it took this long to get to the "greed of the developer" !!. We knew Harold and used to chat with him once or twice a week usually at Cafe Ole. He would be very proud of the Villages !!! If he was still here, I doubt it would be much different than it is now.
He had a vision of how big this place would be and the opportunities. As with every business person in the world, Harold enjoyed making money while he created this awesome place. Same with the Morse family. And to all of them, a great big :bigbow:
They sure changed my life for the better.

I enjoy hearing about the "good old days" in The Villages. Did Harold really think it would be this big or maybe even bigger? If so, did he share how big with you?

I use to think all the unique amenities were put up north and couldn't understand why they weren't mirrored down south. Now I think they were built for 100,000 plus people long before anyone else expected this growth.

Maybe it's the same with the big box stores and department stores. They are not that far away no matter where you live.

[Polar Bear]

...Really? When I say good morning to someone, I expect some response other than a stare-through-me kinda look. In the south, it is considered rude to not acknowledge someone's friendly gesture.
You mean you actually get a no-response when you're near somebody, look them square in the face, and say good morning?!? I've never experienced that and can't even imagine it.

Sometimes people don't speak to everyone they pass. I sure don't. That's just human nature. But a simple, friendly greeting is almost always returned in my experience.

[golfing eagles]

From the way some people are talking, I think they found true happiness in their unhappiness!
No offense, but I don't think I want to play golf with them. Probably not an issue, however, since I have not had any trouble getting a winter tee time.

[outlaw]

You mean you actually get a no-response when you're near somebody, look them square in the face, and say good morning?!? I've never experienced that and can't even imagine it.

Sometimes people don't speak to everyone they pass. I sure don't. That's just human nature. But a simple, friendly greeting is almost always returned in my experience.

I was responding to Walt who said he could not understand why someone would think anything negative about someone not responding to a smile or wave.
Many times while riding my bike, I will say good morning to someone I pass by, an from them. I think it's a northern/big city thing.

[Rhino]

I am a second generation Villager and I love it as much as my Mom and Dad did. So glad that my parents found this place.

[tomwed]

I was responding to Walt who said he could not understand why someone would think anything negative about someone not responding to a smile or wave.
Many times while riding my bike, I will say good morning to someone I pass by, an from them. I think it's a northern/big city thing.
I agree. The people from Spanish Springs can be mighty snobbish and distant.

[Arubagirl95]

Moved into TV in 2004 and still loving it.

[outlaw]

I agree. The people from Spanish Springs can be mighty snobbish and distant.

I was talking about Summerfield.

[Bonny]

I was responding to Walt who said he could not understand why someone would think anything negative about someone not responding to a smile or wave.
Many times while riding my bike, I will say good morning to someone I pass by, an from them. I think it's a northern/big city thing.
If you are riding a bike past them, how do you know they didn't say good morning? You were already passing by them. They wouldn't even have time to respond quick enough for you to hear them. A northern thing? Kind of a broad statement to make. I'm from Michigan and always talk to people.

[Bonny]

I agree. The people from Spanish Springs can be mighty snobbish and distant.

:1rotfl:

[Bonny]

From the way some people are talking, I think they found true happiness in their unhappiness!
No offense, but I don't think I want to play golf with them. Probably not an issue, however, since I have not had any trouble getting a winter tee time.
:agree: Some people just are unhappy people and don't have a life.

[Bonny]

I was talking about Summerfield.
Oh that far north ! :)

[Mikeod]

For some it's a matter of perspective. Someone coming from a rural area where the next home is a long way away, this seems crowded, there is too much traffic on the roads, it's hard to get into restaurants, etc. For someone who has lived in a big city, traffic is not a problem, homes are not too close, waiting for a seat in a restaurant is normal, etc. For people from small towns/cities where they knew everyone, this may seem less friendly. For those from the city, there is less expectation of interaction with strangers.

Another facet is how long ago someone moved to TV. I believe that years ago many residents were grateful to find a place where they could enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle in retirement in the Florida sun. (Recent weather notwithstanding!) It seems some later residents want TV to be just what they left, but with better winter weather. When it doesn't fill their needs for culture, fine dining, private golf course conditions, etc., they are not as content.

[Bonny]

They sure changed my life for the better.

I enjoy hearing about the "good old days" in The Villages. Did Harold really think it would be this big or maybe even bigger? If so, did he share how big with you?

I use to think all the unique amenities were put up north and couldn't understand why they weren't mirrored down south. Now I think they were built for 100,000 plus people long before anyone else expected this growth.

Maybe it's the same with the big box stores and department stores. They are not that far away no matter where you live.
He was such a nice man. Talked to everyone. He used to tell us to bring all our Michigan people down. Said they would have plenty of space for them.
He was excited to see Glenview CC getting done.
We met him on our first trip here when we were looking. He overheard our conversation with another couple about how cool the place was. Next thing we knew, we were sitting and chatting about Michigan and here.
He loved to watch the people in the square and said "there will be more of this" with a smile. We knew it was going to be big.

[pbkmaine]

The story is told of a traveler who, on his way to a city, asked a resident from the city what the city was like, if the people were friendly, etc. In his response, the resident asked the traveler what the people were like in the city from which he was traveling. He said they were a mean, stingy, unhappy lot. The resident of the city said I think you’ll find those here to be the same.

Another traveler happened to stop and ask the same resident the same question, to which he replied with the likewise. But this time the traveler said the folks in the city which he had left were warm, friendly and generous. The resident of the city replied I think you’ll find those here to be the same.



I have found the Villagers--less the one or two percent--to be as happy as they have ever been and delighted at their decision to move here.



“No matter where you go, there you are.”


This is so true. When we first moved here, one of our first visitors was a woman who lived behind us. She told us that this was a very unfriendly neighborhood, and that we shouldn't be upset if nobody spoke to us. By the end of the week our house was filled with chocolates and baked goods, and we had already begun friendships that continue to this day. Same neighborhood, completely different experiences. Our dissatisfied neighbor has moved, and I hope she is happier wherever she ended up. As for us - my husband's only complaint is that people he doesn't know keep waving at him [emoji3]

[Bonny]

This is so true. When we first moved here, one of our first visitors was a woman who lived behind us. She told us that this was a very unfriendly neighborhood, and that we shouldn't be upset if nobody spoke to us. By the end of the week our house was filled with chocolates and baked goods, and we had already begun friendships that continue to this day. Same neighborhood, completely different experiences. Our dissatisfied neighbor has moved, and I hope she is happier wherever she ended up. As for us - my husband's only complaint is that people he doesn't know keep waving at him [emoji3]:coolsmiley:

[grapevine]

My Friends are way too busy to stand back and moan unfavorable changes, less desireable folk etc. They are busy performing, volunteering, creating etc. Can't think of another place filled with stimulation, entertainment and activity quite the same. The "senior seniors" 80+ pretty much agree The Villages has given them quality additional years and they are looking to more. Some are here for 18 + years, owned different size homes north & south and feel pretty much the same as in the begining...though with better live theatre offerings now.

[2BNTV]

I wonder if the posters that insist they are happy are really in denial. I'm not saying they are. I'm just wondering if they are. Could it be they are disappointed, and they can't admit to themselves that they made a mistake, and may even feel trapped with a mortgage that is upside down? Maybe the posters that are being critical of TV, or honest about their feelings regarding TV, are actually the ones that are totally free and happy with their life because they are not concerned about making a mistake or being wrong about something, but in fact, embrace different perspectives and changes in their own opinion about things? Or maybe not...just wondering.

Wondering or pot stirring? HHHHHMMMMMMMMM!!!!

BTW - I see this thread is reaching 200 posts. I predict another 300 posts.

[Bonny]

Wondering or pot stirring? HHHHHMMMMMMMMM!!!!

BTW - I see this thread is reaching 200 posts. I predict another 300 posts.
I'm going with the pot stirring. :D

[Chi-Town]

Wondering or pot stirring? HHHHHMMMMMMMMM!!!!

BTW - I see this thread is reaching 200 posts. I predict another 300 posts.
Pot stirring. Habitual. Check out Cecil.

[Barefoot]

I am very discontented. I has become so crowded that people don't wave to each other anymore. During Season forget about going out to eat! Also, it has become so expensive to shop, dine or even have a few cocktails with friends to catch up. I almost never do anything inside The Villages anymore I go outside where the prices are friendlier. Streets = crowded, golf courses = crowded, restaurants = crowded. Not much left to like except Life Long Learning College.

I think this one of those "tongue-in-cheek" posts meant to be funny. :confused:
If so, good first post Flora. :ho: If not, I apologize.

[Bonny]

I think this one of those "tongue-in-cheek" posts means to be funny. :confused:
If so, good first post Flora. :ho: If not, I apologize.
I didn't get the "tongue-in-cheek" post feeling. I kind of got a stir the pot feeling. Of course, that could just be me. :icon_wink:

[Sandtrap328]

I cannot even imagine how anyone could not be at their happiest here in The Villages.

In snowbird season, things are more crowded but all you have to do is adapt and ajust. No problem!

Of course, anyone terribly unhappy - and we hope there aren't any - can make a nice profit on their house as they wave goodbye.

[Barefoot]

Based on TOTV and the online news comments/letters, there seem to be a lot of unhappy TVers. Could it be disillusionment in the reality of living here versus the vacation lifestyle visit that sold them on TV? Could it be TV changing from the "friendliest village" to just another overcrowded municipal area with a lot of stressed out people competing for limited resources? Or maybe, it has to do with world politics and global unrest. It's just a sense I have. I'm not sure it even exists. Just wondering if others sense this undercurrent of discontent.

I cannot even imagine how anyone could not be at their happiest here in The Villages.

My best friend in TV and her husband (residents since 2007) just sold their home and are moving on, looking for new adventures. They are an intelligent, fun-loving couple with a lot of friends in TV.

I truly don't think you have to be neurotic or depressed or an introvert to want a change from The Villages.

[CraigP]

I so agree with you! We bought and moved in in January this year. We aren't quite full timers yet and we are back in our original state for a couple of months. All I know is that we so miss TV but what we miss the most are the absolutely wonderful people who have become our best friends ever! We so love all the Villages have to offer but it is the great people who live there that are absolutely the greatest selling point!

[CindyNah1]

Am moving to the Villages in Sept. Thanks for all who posted. Can't wait

[helen lovely]

The ever increasing population of older folks & the limited resources to keep up except fast food places & scam businesses tend to erode the quality of life most expected & did not get. Like Disney, it has lost it's direction & mission. "The Villages is a census-designated place (CDP) in Sumter County, Florida, United States. It shares its name with a broader master-planned age-restricted community that spreads into portions of Lake and Marion counties. The Villages consistently ranks as a very high growth area. The US Census ranked The Villages as the fastest-growing U.S. city for the second year in a row (during the 12 months ended July 2014);[4] The Villages has more than doubled in size since 2010: about 114,350 people now live in the community.[5]"
I doubt this ever gets posted but it's on Wikipedia & more.

[tomwed]

scam businesses tend to erode the quality of life most expected & did not get.
Name the scam businesses. I don't think that gets posted.

[DruannB]

I've read all the posts and I want to say "thank you" to everyone. You might not agree with each other, but your posts are informative to those of us who haven't moved yet. I can only speak of my own experiences, both in my current hometown and in The Villages. I live on "Main Street" in a medium-sized city in Ohio. We are on a 50 foot wide lot, with neighbors who leave nasty notes on each others porches when someone doesn't live up to others expectations. Average wait at many downtown restaurants are one hour, and that's not during a high season--because we don't have one. People don't wave--or speak--to most of their neighbors, despite the fact that we created a neighborhood organization. Cold shoulders? Come visit my town. Now, when we last visited The Villages, a man got out of his golf cart to ask us if we were lost when he saw we were looking at a map. Another kind gentleman explained the rules of the dog park. No wait for a table at a restaurant, but quite frankly, if you hand me a drink I don't mind waiting. Will I mind houses close by? Nope. I'm used to it. And neighbors can ONLY be friendlier in The Villages. So, it may not be perfect, but I've seen, and lived in, worse.

[Shadow8IA]

We purchased a house after renting for 3 weeks. We will be snowbirds so we can be near our family in the summer. My husband likes to golf EVERY day and The Villages allows him to do that. There are so many activities to pick from so if your bored it's your own fault.

[mickey100]

My best friend in TV and her husband (residents since 2007) just sold their home and are moving on, looking for new adventures. They are an intelligent, fun-loving couple with a lot of friends in TV.

I truly don't think you have to be neurotic or depressed or an introvert to want a change from The Villages.


I agree. Everyone has different needs. The Villages has changed dramatically in the last 7 or 8 years with the buildup and doubling of population size. It isn't for everyone. And people may leave and go be "happy" somewhere else.

[graciegirl]

I agree. Everyone has different needs. The Villages has changed dramatically in the last 7 or 8 years with the buildup and doubling of population size. It isn't for everyone. And people may leave and go be "happy" somewhere else.




But negativity is still found from the same people. And positivity is still found from the same people.

[Greg Nelson]

My dad used to say 'the hardest person to live with is yourself'. My lovely wife was enamored with TV. She even found a villa that was reasonable in price and was not totally enclosed by other residents with a 'water view' ( half acre hole filled with water). So when she put the pressure on me to buy..all I said was the two words us adult men use the most 'YES DEAR'. But When I added 'you pay half' she dropped the subject. (her $$ is set aside for when I'm dead and gone). Keeping up two homes is not a smart move for us. We live on a clear lake in a 36 acre development with 13 homes. Eventually we will sell here and buy....

[Bonny]

I agree. Everyone has different needs. The Villages has changed dramatically in the last 7 or 8 years with the buildup and doubling of population size. It isn't for everyone. And people may leave and go be "happy" somewhere else.
We know some wonderful people that moved from the Villages because it just wasn't for them. They didn't golf, didn't get into things at the rec centers, were not club joiners & they liked to stay home and cook. They love where they are living now. We still keep in touch.

[manaboutown]

Two hundred posts on this topic!

Time for another glass of Kool-Aid.

[outlaw]

Two hundred posts on this topic!

Time for another glass of Kool-Aid.

I'm surprised there is any kool-aid left. I was thinking of a more alcoholic beverage.

[Bonny]

I'm surprised there is any kool-aid left. I was thinking of a more alcoholic beverage.
:beer3: :wine:

[outlaw]

There do seem to be a lot of posters that find TV is not nirvana(but no place is), and just as many that seem to take that opinion personally. In summary, it appears that TV has changed; some good, some not so good. I think the main issue is overcrowding; facilities and amenities not keeping up with the population increase. Also, I think TV has changed to a more resort/vacation type of town versus the older TV where even the snowbirds were not really vacationing, but were full time home-owning residents for several months.

[WilliamDonato]

The Villages so far for me is perfect and I believe by most who reside here

[Bonny]

There do seem to be a lot of posters that find TV is not nirvana(but no place is), and just as many that seem to take that opinion personally. In summary, it appears that TV has changed; some good, some not so good. I think the main issue is overcrowding; facilities and amenities not keeping up with the population increase. Also, I think TV has changed to a more resort/vacation type of town versus the older TV where even the snowbirds were not really vacationing, but were full time home-owning residents for several months.
It is no different now then it was when we bought here in 1999. 23,000 people, 1 square. It was always kind of a resort. We met people back in the day that rented here every year.
In comparison, there is way more today per population than there was back then. We all had to drive to Leesburg or Ocala to do any household shopping.
What I always say, people know all of this when they come here.
Some don't want any more people. I bet if their best friends or a relative wants to move here, that would be okay with them.
People make a choice to live here. If they come and look, they see there is a lot of people. They have the choice of saying, too crowded, I'm going somewhere else. They come here and then want everything to change. We love it just the way it is. If they don't like it or are unhappy, there are plenty of real estate companies they can call. Just sayin' :)

[golfing eagles]

It's still all relative. Met a couple at the farmer's market in Brownwood in April that just moved here from Naples---main reason, crowding and traffic, which seems to be the case in most of South Florida. Even our small Upstate NY city now has times when it takes 2 cycles of a traffic light to get through. When I was in grade school, the big headline was the US population hit 200 million---now we're pushing 330 million---that's a 65% increase in less than 50 years, so I imagine there is population driven stress on infrastructure in most places--worse in desirable locations. At least we have that desirable location--imagine the same issues in Fargo ND or Lubbock TX (No offense to anyone from those places)

[THUNDERCHIEF]

The villages is beautiful, thats for sure, but my wife and i love going outside the bubble to areas like MT. Dora, Tavaras ,LaKe Eustis, the Hideaway on Lake Harris. The believe that 3 town centers will not support the additional building thats going on. It does not matter if your happy or not-- crowded is crowded, we also go to Cedar Key, Ocala AND MANY OTHER PLACES. There is a world outside the Villages. TAKE A TRIP TO LAKERIDGE WINERY, AND ENJOY WINE TASTING AND ONE OF THEIR SPECIAL MUSIC EVENTS.

[outlaw]

It is no different now then it was when we bought here in 1999. 23,000 people, 1 square. It was always kind of a resort. We met people back in the day that rented here every year.
In comparison, there is way more today per population than there was back then. We all had to drive to Leesburg or Ocala to do any household shopping.
What I always say, people know all of this when they come here.
Some don't want any more people. I bet if their best friends or a relative wants to move here, that would be okay with them.
People make a choice to live here. If they come and look, they see there is a lot of people. They have the choice of saying, too crowded, I'm going somewhere else. They come here and then want everything to change. We love it just the way it is. If they don't like it or are unhappy, there are plenty of real estate companies they can call. Just sayin' :)

1999 - 23,000 per 1 square
Now - 115,000 per 3 squares = 38,000 per square
23,000 to 38,000 = a 67% increase in people/square density
Seems like a difference to me. Just sayin'.

[golfing eagles]

1999 - 23,000 per 1 square
Now - 115,000 per 3 squares = 38,000 per square
23,000 to 38,000 = a 67% increase in people/square density
Seems like a difference to me. Just sayin'.

Bu the key question is how many people can a "square" support comfortably--It's not 1, nor is it 1 million--I have no idea. How many people visit a square/day? How many are non-Villagers? What's the difference between a quiet evening and one with a big event? Today 115,000 people in 32 sq miles at peak season = 3594/sq mile. 1999----?23000 in maybe 8 sq mi = 2875/ sq mi. How many golf courses and Rec centers were there back then? How many grocery stores? Maybe the infrastructure has lagged a bit, but probably not by a huge amount

[Bonny]

1999 - 23,000 per 1 square
Now - 115,000 per 3 squares = 38,000 per square
23,000 to 38,000 = a 67% increase in people/square density
Seems like a difference to me. Just sayin'.
Yes, however we are loaded with restaurants and stores all around the Villages which we didn't have before and that takes many people to other areas not just the square. We didn't have all of that back then.

[mickey100]

Bu the key question is how many people can a "square" support comfortably--It's not 1, nor is it 1 million--I have no idea. How many people visit a square/day? How many are non-Villagers? What's the difference between a quiet evening and one with a big event? Today 115,000 people in 32 sq miles at peak season = 3594/sq mile. 1999----?23000 in maybe 8 sq mi = 2875/ sq mi. How many golf courses and Rec centers were there back then? How many grocery stores? Maybe the infrastructure has lagged a bit, but probably not by a huge amount

By the numbers you have cited, 2875 vs. 3594 people per square mile, it appears there are 25% more people now per square mile. This is huge when you're looking at use of the recreational facilities, traffic on the roads, people at the restaurants, etc. Just sayin'.

[outlaw]

Yes, however we are loaded with restaurants and stores all around the Villages which we didn't have before and that takes many people to other areas not just the square. We didn't have all of that back then.

I agree there are other factors...but you were the one using that number as if it supported the premise that nothing has changed. I was just showing that things obviously have changed just by the fact that there are many, many more people per available town square. What would be interesting is to know if water volleyball, yoga, and mahjong(?) wait times, or tee time /preferences have increased/decreased or stayed about the same over the last 4 or 5 years.

[outlaw]

I heard a discussion the other day by some realtors and TVers that have been here for a long time. They indicated that the developer studied Sun City when designing TV. They based TV on the Sun City demographic which comprised much older senior citizens than the baby boomer generation is producing, and this much younger retiree is consuming much more activity amenities than TV was designed to accommodate. I don't know if this is true or not, but it seems plausible. Kool-aid drinkers: This is not meant as a criticism of the developer. The baby boomer demographics are surprising many experts.

[Bonny]

History
Harold Schwartz, a Michigan businessman, began selling land tracts via mail order in The Villages area in the 1960s. He and his business partner, Al Tarrson, were forced to close the mail-order aspect of the business due to a 1968 Federal law banning sales of real estate by mail order.[10]
Stuck with considerable portions of Florida land, in the early 1970s Schwartz and Tarrson began development of a mobile home park, Orange Blossom Gardens, in the northwestern corner of Lake County. By the early 1980s, the community had sold only 400 units. In an attempt to improve the business, Schwartz bought out Tarrson's interest and brought his son, H. Gary Morse, on board in 1983.
Morse noted that the successful retirement communities (such as Del Webb's Sun City developments) offered numerous well-maintained amenities to the residents. They also had diverse and nearby commercial development. Morse began to significantly upgrade the development. Their sales improved in the mid-1980s. Schwartz began to buy large tracts of land in nearby Sumter and Marion counties for future expansion. In 1992, Morse officially changed the overall development name to The Villages. The development is still controlled in all major aspects by descendants of Schwartz and Morse.

[Chi-Town]

History
Harold Schwartz, a Michigan businessman, began selling land tracts via mail order in The Villages area in the 1960s. He and his business partner, Al Tarrson, were forced to close the mail-order aspect of the business due to a 1968 Federal law banning sales of real estate by mail order.[10]
Stuck with considerable portions of Florida land, in the early 1970s Schwartz and Tarrson began development of a mobile home park, Orange Blossom Gardens, in the northwestern corner of Lake County. By the early 1980s, the community had sold only 400 units. In an attempt to improve the business, Schwartz bought out Tarrson's interest and brought his son, H. Gary Morse, on board in 1983.
Morse noted that the successful retirement communities (such as Del Webb's Sun City developments) offered numerous well-maintained amenities to the residents. They also had diverse and nearby commercial development. Morse began to significantly upgrade the development. Their sales improved in the mid-1980s. Schwartz began to buy large tracts of land in nearby Sumter and Marion counties for future expansion. In 1992, Morse officially changed the overall development name to The Villages. The development is still controlled in all major aspects by descendants of Schwartz and Morse.

Nice history summary Bonny. And the Schwartz/Morse plan has been dynamic, far from static. That's why people are moving here and why people are staying here.

[golfing eagles]

By the numbers you have cited, 2875 vs. 3594 people per square mile, it appears there are 25% more people now per square mile. This is huge when you're looking at use of the recreational facilities, traffic on the roads, people at the restaurants, etc. Just sayin'.

It's only "huge" if there has not been a 25% increase in rec centers and restaurants/sq mi and 25% more roads/sq mi. For example, IF there were 5 rec centers in 8 sq mi and now 25 centers in 32 sq mi, we would be ahead, at least as measured by sq miles. If we look at the stated 23,000 population in 1999 compared with 115,000 today, are there 5x as many centers, restaurants etc as back then?

[dholley76]

We are in TV this weekend for the site visit, and have been favorably impressed with all that we have seen. We have found many friendly people willing to answer our newbie questions about life here.
Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this thread. We have learned that things can get busy, especially in the winter, but almost everyone has told us that there are ways to soften the blow to get tee times, or get into activities such as Zumba, Yoga, and other group activities. We love the Town Centers and the golf cart rides to and from. We are looking at other communities next week, but everyone (including you on this thread) have opened our eyes to how great TV can be...Thanks again!!

[bluedivergirl]

Just yesterday, at Publix, I was aiming for the 10 or less line. So was another gentleman. We wound up in an argument.

A smiling argument over who had more time, who had more patience, and who should go first. (you go! No, you go.)

I've only been here five months, but I just don't see the overall problem. Isolated incidents, sure.

BTW, I love the southern manners in most retail establishments.

[gap2415]

We project our inner world out there. We all have good days and bad even here in The Villages. We love it with the exception of that deed compliance lady gathering her little hate list of minor indiscretions...but luckily she is not in our friendly village.
There is no perfection here yet, we haven't found any happier place for baby boomers than The Villages.

[golfing eagles]

Just yesterday, at Publix, I was aiming for the 10 or less line. So was another gentleman. We wound up in an argument.

A smiling argument over who had more time, who had more patience, and who should go first. (you go! No, you go.)

I've only been here five months, but I just don't see the overall problem. Isolated incidents, sure.

BTW, I love the southern manners in most retail establishments.

But, were one of the two of you next, or were there 17,672 people on line ahead of you, as "TV is overcrowded" group would suggest?

[DonH57]

It's just intolerable having to stand in the 10 items only lane, behind two others. How uncivilized. Why did these people decide they have to be in the store too? I hope I get back to put my stuff away and beat them to the country club to eat.

[bonrich]

We are not full time as yet, but getting close, 8 out of 12 months. We enjoy a cart ride after a late dinner, get some ice cream either LSL or BW, listen to some tunes, then a golf cart ride back, detouring through different neighborhoods and viewing the landscaping and the painted and bricked drives. Residents usually wave to us as we drive through. Back to the house for final cup of coffee.
Simple pleasures.....

[Steve9930]

Those alleged unhappy villagers are not villagers at all, but online planted imposters from other jealous communities. Anyone need only be here to see that it is actually utopia! My arm is tired from waving at all the smiling villagers.

Really? From the post I would assume your one of them.

[Allegiance]

http://media.liveauctiongroup.net/i/8823/10030751_1m.jpg?v=8CE71411C11F350. Problem solved, will be selling them at market night.

[golfing eagles]

It's just intolerable having to stand in the 10 items only lane, behind two others. How uncivilized. Why did these people decide they have to be in the store too? I hope I get back to put my stuff away and beat them to the country club to eat.

Yeah, I know what you mean. They're the same people who are on the roads, on the cart paths, sitting at the squares, on the golf courses, in the pools, at the rec centers, at the Sharon, on line at the bank, at the restaurants, soon to be back at Katie Bells, at the gas pumps, at the airport TSA checkpoint line, etc. What was the name of that movie with Charlton Heston--"The Omega Man"?---life would be so much easier if all we had to worry about were some zombies, who needs all those other people.

[tomwed]

You can change the text to Bold,Italics, or Underline.

But there ought to be a law that if you are being sarcastic you must use all three.

I wonder if that would work.hmmmmmmmmmm

[golfing eagles]

You can change the text to Bold,Italics, or Underline.

But there ought to be a law that if you are being sarcastic you must use all three.

I wonder if that would work.hmmmmmmmmmm

Or just a simple (*sarc) afterwards. Would it work? I don't hold out much hope, after all weight/volume = DENSITY

[tomwed]

Or just a simple (*sarc) afterwards. Would it work? I don't hold out much hope, after all weight/volume = DENSITY
Are you calling me fat?*sarc

see how easy that was?

[golfing eagles]

Are you calling me fat?*sarc

see how easy that was?

Am I? *sarc

[tomwed]

Am I? *sarc

:1rotfl:

[Bonny]

You can change the text to Bold,Italics, or Underline.

But there ought to be a law that if you are being sarcastic you must use all three.

I wonder if that would work.hmmmmmmmmmm
Don't forget exclamation points !! :a20:

[cahvillage]

Most people that are unhappy in The Villages are people that were never happy and probably will never be happy. I am grateful to be living in The Villages in a neighborhood of mostly happy people...There are a few unhappy people, like everywhere, on our street but that's the state of mind they live in and nothing can make them happy. Surround yourself with positive people. Life is short.

[lanemb]

If you don't like it here please do yourself and others a favor and leave, work to make it better or just simply quit complaining. We are free people thank goodness. Vote with your feet by pursuing your own happy place.

My motto "Love It Or Leave It" be it country, state, county, neighborhood or job.

[Greg Nelson]

The hardest person to live with is yourself

[tomwed]

The hardest person to live with is yourself
I thought it was my Uncle Eddy.

[cynjim]

If you are not happy, move rather than complain. Life is short.....

[perrjojo]

If you are not happy, move rather than complain. Life is short.....

It's not WHERE you live or with WHOM you live that makes one happy. Happiness comes from within.

[manaboutown]

If you are unhappy have some more Kool-Aid. Things will look brighter.

[tomwed]

Whenever I'm happy and I know it, I clap my hands. My mom taught me that.

[zebroni]

We moved here in January this year, wish we would have done it 10 years ago, LOVE IT!

[looneycat]

if your only sampling is from totv and the online news you do not have a proper sampling to draw any conclusion from. sorry but true

[Barefoot]

You can change the text to Bold,Italics, or Underline.
But there ought to be a law that if you are being sarcastic you must use all three..

Tommie, are you bored today or did someone appoint you Grammar Principal?*sarc
Bold and underlined just sounds as if you're really angry, and we can tell from your hand clapping that you're quite a happy fellow.

[tomwed]

Tommie, are you bored today or did someone appoint you Grammar Principal?*sarc
Bold and underlined just sounds as if you're really angry, and we can tell from your hand clapping that you're quite a happy fellow.
I guess bored.
It's just that every now and then, just like everyone else I suppose, I don't know when someone is being sarcastic. And sometimes I say things that are so far off the hook in my mind, I think everyone knows I'm being sarcastic.
For example, someone wrote that the most difficult person in the world to live with; is themselves. And I wrote, I thought it was my Uncle Eddy.

Now which one of us is being sarcastic?

So I thought if there was a Sarcastic Font we would always know. But since there isn't a sarcastic font, then maybe bold, highlight and italics would work. Bonny said a couple of exclamation points might help.

Not all of my ideas work. In fact, hardly any at all.

[Barefoot]

...