Newbie - What I learned today

[Tom C]

We are newbies to The Villages (we arrived just 3 days ago). I have found that there is something that I learn/discover here everyday! Things that I have not necessarily heard about in the forums, or that I have read for the past 18 months following the forum.... so...

I wanted to start a thread that others could also share their “findings”. I will start it with my observation from today:

One may never get another paper cut, after moving to TV. :1rotfl:

Paper here is more like cloth. The humidity reduces its stiffness and increases its thickness... and cardboard is more like a damp sponge.

Add your thoughts and findings as you wish (either from other newbies :oops: or those who have sage observations :welcome: )

[Kenswing]

Even though I'm almost four years behind you I can't wait to see what other things you learn along the way. This is going to be both educational and fun.. lol

[thelegges]

Three times a week in our post box we get a card WE WON A CAR. :a040: No more room in our garage, so I think donating them will be our next option.:1rotfl:

[vintageogauge]

I was always told that there were lots of bugs in Florida. We've been here over two years and I have learned that there are a lot less bugs here than there are in Ohio. I've also learned that you can plant tomato plants in February and be eating them in May before you can even plant them in Ohio. I've also learned that having irrigation in your landscape means you don't have to stand outside for an hour with a hose every other day. Lots of differences down here.

[New Englander]

I've learned that good pizza is more difficult to find.

[Bosoxfan]

I've learned that good pizza is more difficult to find.

As is good Italian food

[perrjojo]

Being from Texas, I haven’t found my idea of good Mexican food or Barbecue. But hey, I love it here

[Altavia]

New Streets are named after employees.

[tophcfa]

I learned on my first trip to the Villages in July that you simply can not make, and expect to keep, any outdoor plans during the summer (like golf or swimming) after about 2:00 PM without a high risk of being electrocuted.

[Velvet]

I learned (so far) that I don’t hate alligators as much as I thought I would. On seeing them a bit closer up, they look quite distinguished.

[B-flat]

As is good Italian food

Plus one!

[Hifred]

My husband and I are from downtown Chicago. We used to go out and eat at 10:00 or 11:00 at night. Most pizza places and a lot of restaurants are open until 2:00 am. We went out tonight at 11:00 and restaurants are all closed. There was liquor but no food. Although the World of Beer says it is open later they close early at manager's discretion so either no dinner or dinner at Denny's which is open all night. We have eaten at Denny's two nights this week. One night I was going to cook but Publix and Winn Dixie close around 9:00 so can't get groceries late either unless you drive to Super Walmart. So we have to learn to go to bed early and get up early or at least keep groceries in the house so we won't go hungry late at night.

[Tom C]

Hi Fred - I have heard this saying: 60 maybe the new 40, but 9 PM is the new Midnight:faint:

[jeriteri]

e learned that it is very easy to make new friends in The Villages because you have the opportunity to join many clubs and events for enjoyment, leisure, dancing, music, recreation, exercise etc. Everyday of the Week! And you also have the choice of attending or not attending these venues.

[perrjojo]

You can go out to eat everyday for a month and never pay because you constantly get mail invitations from financial advisors, cremation societies, etc. they all are offering free lunch or dinner for you to attend their meeting.

[PoolBrews]

You can eat out late at Gators Dockside in Spanish Springs. They are also the only place to see a Sunday, Monday, or Thursday night football game in it's entirety!

[Velvet]

My husband and I are from downtown Chicago. We used to go out and eat at 10:00 or 11:00 at night. Most pizza places and a lot of restaurants are open until 2:00 am. We went out tonight at 11:00 and restaurants are all closed. There was liquor but no food. Although the World of Beer says it is open later they close early at manager's discretion so either no dinner or dinner at Denny's which is open all night. We have eaten at Denny's two nights this week. One night I was going to cook but Publix and Winn Dixie close around 9:00 so can't get groceries late either unless you drive to Super Walmart. So we have to learn to go to bed early and get up early or at least keep groceries in the house so we won't go hungry late at night.

We learned the same thing. We call it “Roosterville” like many towns, TV keeps rooster hours. But lately they want to charge city taxes....

It gets quite pleasant being awake when the sun is up.

[zmarkp]

One morning last month I went to pour a cup of coffee and almost stepped on a snake inside my house. Didn't need any more coffee for a week! Some friendly neighbors from Arizona recommended I purchase some long barbeque tongs in case it happens again.

[Dond1959]

I learned that there are a lot of good people here, but like anywhere there are a few who just want to complain or try to tell you why your decisions are stupid. I also learned if you want to start a big fight on here just start a thread about lawn ornaments.

[New Englander]

One morning last month I went to pour a cup of coffee and almost stepped on a snake inside my house. Didn't need any more coffee for a week! Some friendly neighbors from Arizona recommended I purchase some long barbeque tongs in case it happens again.

How does a snake get inside your house?

[Kenswing]

How does a snake get inside your house?
Slithers? lol

[CWGUY]

How does a snake get inside your house?

:shocked: You have never had one in your garage or on your lanai? Then leave a door open for a minute while doing something. Lucky you! We have had them inside but my wife is a snake wrangler..... not afraid of them at all. Me..... I'm up on the counter top screaming like an 8 year old girl! :icon_wink:

[ColdNoMore]

We are newbies to The Villages (we arrived just 3 days ago). I have found that there is something that I learn/discover here everyday! Things that I have not necessarily heard about in the forums, or that I have read for the past 18 months following the forum.... so...

I wanted to start a thread that others could also share their “findings”. I will start it with my observation from today:

One may never get another paper cut, after moving to TV. :1rotfl:

Paper here is more like cloth. The humidity reduces its stiffness and increases its thickness... and cardboard is more like a damp sponge.

Add your thoughts and findings as you wish (either from other newbies :oops: or those who have sage observations :welcome: )

Along those lines, say goodbye to lightning bolts coming from your dry/cracked finger tips while reaching for doorknobs (:mad:)...when it's double-digits below zero and % humidity.

[zmarkp]

How does a snake get inside your house?

Wish I knew! But unless I'm in the same room I keep all my outside doors closed.

[retiredguy123]

One of the first things I learned when I moved to The Villages is that I don't need or want a golf cart.

[Garywt]

OK, I have found I don’t need a car as you can do everything with a golf cart. The golf cart was my main reason for moving here. I also found out that the sidewalks roll up at 9:00. When out on the cart at 11 or later I am usually the only one out in our area or heading down to steak and shack etc.

[Chi-Town]

One thing I learned as that people get up a lot earlier. And if you have people over at 6:00 be ready at 5:50.


Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk

[Iowagirl2]

Thanks for starting this thread I will be moving down there on August 6 and can’t wait to post my findings

[deano_hoosier]

There are no "deadends" but lots of "no outlets". I've learned too that the street Palo Alto intersects with itself. So the street sign says at the corner of..... "Palo Alto" and "Palo Alto".

[TimeForChange]

We are newbies to The Villages (we arrived just 3 days ago). I have found that there is something that I learn/discover here everyday! Things that I have not necessarily heard about in the forums, or that I have read for the past 18 months following the forum.... so...

I wanted to start a thread that others could also share their “findings”. I will start it with my observation from today:

One may never get another paper cut, after moving to TV. :1rotfl:

Paper here is more like cloth. The humidity reduces its stiffness and increases its thickness... and cardboard is more like a damp sponge.

Add your thoughts and findings as you wish (either from other newbies :oops: or those who have sage observations :welcome: )

Lived in the South all my life and have no idea what you are referencing about paper.

[ColdNoMore]

Lived in the South all my life and have no idea what you are referencing about paper.

It's about humidity.

The colder it gets...the drier the air.

When it is extremely cold out, the air is so dry that you can throw liquid up and it will be absorbed in the air...before it can even hit the snow.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJqMN_hH6zI

[BK001]

Slithers? lol

Haha -- and this isn't even the joke thread!

[Velvet]

Did he say Fairbanks in the video? Brrrr, not on my list of places to visit any time soon.

[ColdNoMore]

Did he say Fairbanks in the video? Brrrr, not on my list of places to visit any time soon.

"Visiting" isn't so bad, as long as you don't have to...live there. :oops:

Having some close friends who've spent many years in Fairbanks and having been fortunate to have visited them in both summer (89 degrees) and winter (53 below), I can attest to it taking a special breed (half-nuts? :D)... to live there year around.

[thelegges]

It's about humidity.

The colder it gets...the drier the air.

When it is extremely cold out, the air is so dry that you can throw liquid up and it will be absorbed in the air...before it can even hit the snow.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJqMN_hH6zI

Our oldest lived in Fairbanks for 7 years. Throwing water is a newby pastime. Now when the fog freeze alert comes you listen and stay at your residence until it’s safe. And never honk your horn at a moose crossing the road, let it take its time or you will be the road kill.

[Spikearoni]

One morning last month I went to pour a cup of coffee and almost stepped on a snake inside my house. Didn't need any more coffee for a week! Some friendly neighbors from Arizona recommended I purchase some long barbeque tongs in case it happens again.

OMG - what kind of snake? do you have any idea how it managed to get into your house?:ohdear:

[CWGUY]

OMG - what kind of snake? do you have any idea how it managed to get into your house?:ohdear:

:icon_wink: See post #21 :ho: It's pretty much how they get every place.

[ColdNoMore]

Our oldest lived in Fairbanks for 7 years. Throwing water is a newby pastime. Now when the fog freeze alert comes you listen and stay at your residence until it’s safe. And never honk your horn at a moose crossing the road, let it take its time or you will be the road kill.

This "newby" enjoyed the demonstration. :cool:

Did your son by any chance mention, as my said friends above have to me, about finding it to be a readjustment when they went 'outside' and getting used to it being both warm AND dark...at the same time? :D

[Gpsma]

Am I the only one who hates senior citizens use the word “newbie”?

How about just saying..im new here

[ColdNoMore]

Am I the only one who hates senior citizens use the word “newbie”?


Hopefully. :oops:

[Tom C]

We found the BEST outdoor cold weather fun experiment was BUBBLES. When one blows a regular soap bubble at -30 F or -40 F, they freeze instantly and when they fall to the ground they simply roll around... FOR WEEKS! Sometimes they will crack, and look like a bunch of very large broken egg shells. We had a driveway full of roaming bubbles when we lived in North Pole Alaska. Great fun can be found everywhere!

[tophcfa]

One of the first things I learned when I moved to The Villages is that I don't need or want a golf cart.

I kind of learned the same thing, but the opposite. All you really need is a good gas golf cart, and not a car.

[thelegges]

Am I the only one who hates senior citizens use the word “newbie”?

How about just saying..im new here

Not everyone here is a senior:a040:

[thelegges]

This "newby" enjoyed the demonstration. :cool:

Did your son by any chance mention, as my said friends above have to me, about finding it to be a readjustment when they went 'outside' and getting used to it being both warm AND dark...at the same time? :D

When they first moved, apartment was not ready, so they lived in a tent from August until November 15. But then again the apartment was only 380sf and no heat. So still upgrade.
First year of dark was their hardest, had he and his wife visit a shaman, and purchase a light.
Cold was not a problem, the birds of prey trying to pick up their dog for lunch was more of a concern. After 7 years they were torn on moving, but when Cambridge called they listened and moved to the U.K.

[deano_hoosier]

What I learned on moving here is that ..... The women mostly can't get pregnant and the men, mostly, look like they are.

[Jima64]

What I learned on moving here is that ..... The women mostly can't get pregnant and the men, mostly, look like they are.

that is so funny.

[EdFNJ]

After 2 years I found that just about everything that I miss from up north is "at least 45mins to an hour away." I learned I have to drive over an hour to Costco and Trader Joe's & around 18 hours :) to Wegmans. I learned there are too many dogs in baby carriages wearing sunglasses and boots. The other thing I learned (but did have some idea of) I couldn't state in this forum.

[jebartle]

I learned that there are a lot of good people here, but like anywhere there are a few who just want to complain or try to tell you why your decisions are stupid. I also learned if you want to start a big fight on here just start a thread about lawn ornaments.

Or dog poooo, or POLITICS!!!!!! Sometimes it's the same thing!!

[jebartle]

Not everyone here is a senior:a040:


Ahhh! But your day will come,

Signed the grim reaper!

[jebartle]

What I learned on moving here is that ..... The women mostly can't get pregnant and the men, mostly, look like they are.


Giggle, snort!!!!!

[Happinow]

I’ve learned that even tho the houses are practically on top of one another, it’s the quietest place I’ve ever lived.

[Kerlampert]

The pools are always comfortably warm...even in the winter.

[Bay Kid]

It is like living in the suburbs in the 60's.

[Pdesensi]

When meeting people for the first time they almost always ask your name and what village do you live.

[Tom C]

In ever knew trash could be so complicated: We have Trash picked up 2X/wk, Yard Waste 1x/wk and Recycling 1x/wk. On some days, they happen on the same morning, other days only by themselves. Trash in one type of plastic bag, Recycle in another and Yard Waste in a third type of bag.

Now that I have experienced it, I understand, and it makes sense. Where we moved from, trash was picked up 1x/wk (all trash was in one can that was picked up by a truck with an automated arm).

I am quite happy with the system here, just took some planning/scheduling and buying a stock of each type of bag for me to get it all working correctly. My Trash/Recycle/Yard Waste is now out to the curb on time and on the right day. Neighbors are a GREAT HELP as they are everywhere in The Villages.

[beckyallen]

Our first impression was how to navigate the roundabouts on the roads and the golf tunnels and trails. But love the trash collection twice a week plus recyclables once a week.

[gacoleman]

Newbies should be extra vigilant when operating a golf cart on roadways. Be sure to look for signs, "No golf carts beyond this point"

[Minoletti]

I have learned to not wash my car so often, mother nature usually does if for me almost once a day.

[GaryKoca]

We are seasonal but love the Villages. Two things:
1) The love bugs in May and September are absolutely awful. Worse than anything I have seen up North.
2) Agree with the comment about no good pizza here. If you are from Chicago or New York, you really miss the pizza.

[yesi3putt2]

try AyJelisco(sp?) in Spanish Springs...I've never been disappointed there

[2CopsMom]

One of the first things I noticed was how clean and well-kept everything was. We rented for years before we bought a house, but every winter I'm always amazed at the beautiful landscaping and well-kept public spaces.

[Tall4mom]

I have learned that my love of working in the yard and flower beds is not enjoyable because of all the "live" things that live there. Also, I like roundabouts even less than I thought.

[graciegirl]

One of the first things I noticed was how clean and well-kept everything was. We rented for years before we bought a house, but every winter I'm always amazed at the beautiful landscaping and well-kept public spaces.

I want to be your friend because I love your screen name. Thank THEM for their service and I thank YOU for raising them.

[realmoxies]

I've learned that good pizza is more difficult to find.

Same goes for Chinese Food!

[mkolbe]

After being here 3 years, we love everything here! Our neighborhood is the best -- always helpful and lots of get-togethers. We are from New Hampshire where it is always cold and cloudy. Here the sun shines every day!
We love the clean (no litter) areas and the landscaping of the common areas is the best. Everyone is helpful and kind.

[Catfishjeff]

My name is Newby so the term Newbie makes me crazy!

[airstreamingypsy]

We are seasonal but love the Villages. Two things:
1) The love bugs in May and September are absolutely awful. Worse than anything I have seen up North.
2) Agree with the comment about no good pizza here. If you are from Chicago or New York, you really miss the pizza.

I'm from NYC, I love Gio's pizza. Gio's Deli on 301, just north of 466.

[ChicagoNative]

Been a snowbird in Villages area since January of 2018. LOVE this: “9pm is the new midnight” and “60 is the new 40”.

I used to be somewhat of a night owl, but now I rarely even make it to the 11pm news! Heck, we thought we’d be at the squares for the entertainment several times a week, but we find ourselves going only occasionally or when we entertain visitors.

Also, I’m no foodie, but I find the quality of the restaurants overall to be pretty mediocre.

[minot1973]

My thought is the engineering master piece! All the interlocking cart paths. And how green everything (for the most part) is. Villager since April 2018

[NJRICHARD]

As a Newbie I also found out you have someone to just cut the grass, another person to trim the bushes, another person to trim the palm trees, and someone else to treat the lawn and bugs.....that is besides someone else to adjust and take care of the lawn watering system and last but not least the drinking water filter treatment person..WHAT are the chances of astro-turfing the entire area thus saving water, labor, etc....I saw really nice large fake palm trees also...REALLY enjoy the place and very different from New Jersey!

[funtime]

I have tried several times to get artificial grass approved, but no luck. You would think it would be a no brainer.

[Jnlegran]

Been here 4 years and on our first visit we noticed how much couples activity was available. Also, how couples were reconnecting, spending time together and enjoying each others company. After a long work career - moving from seeing your spouse every few days to spending 7x24 together - so awesome to have couples your own age and with common interest to do things with :)

[malbe]

I have found the "cold" water from your faucet is not actually cold like up north. It is lukewarm!

[Cookie Princess]

After being here 3 years, we love everything here! We are from New Hampshire where it is always cold and cloudy. Here the sun shines every day!


How was your experience during the summers? We are from Maine. I love the heat, but it makes my husband cranky.

[Packer Fan]

Same goes for Chinese Food!

The Chinese place in Pinnelas plaza is excellent carryout

[starkk]

I found that the weather/heat is no different than in New Jersey..its hot you seek out air conditioning. Really is not bad and I love it here. so many activities for everyone and every type of weather!

[ColdNoMore]

I found that the weather/heat is no different than in New Jersey..its hot you seek out air conditioning. Really is not bad and I love it here. so many activities for everyone and every type of weather!

Maybe for a day/week or so at a time they are the same, but simple/verifiable historical statistics show that the length of said weather conditions...are not even close to being comparable. :oops:

[rrb48310]

I agree, being from Michigan I miss the COLD water from the tap. So I clean out an old milk container and put it the fridge. I get cold water and I don’t have to shovel snow.:coolsmiley:

We like El Ranchito on 27/441 across the street from Perkins. Food is good IMO but the (always) 2 for 1 margaritas are fabulous, I think, after the second one I have to give up the keys to the golf car.:icon_wink:

[Carla B]

I have found the "cold" water from your faucet is not actually cold like up north. It is lukewarm!

And the hot water for the shower in the bathroom takes "forever" to arrive in the winter.

[Nucky]

Barring a Medical Episode the Heat can be managed better by consuming massive amounts of water, MASSIVE! I can still stay relatively active and not feel wiped out like I do this moment.

It's because of one thing and it's my fault. Not enough AGUA.

Rules Are Also In Place In This Beautiful Place We Have Been Given The Chance To Co-Exist Peacefully In. All I Have to Do Is Follow Them. Not Make Up My Own Rules! Thankfully I Accepted This Quickly.

1) Drink Water
2) Follow The Rules
3) Crank the A/C :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[valuemkt]

I have found the "cold" water from your faucet is not actually cold like up north. It is lukewarm!

The only water I drink comes out of the front of the refrigerator .. You could run it forever from the tap and it would still be lukewarm !

[CWGUY]

Barring a Medical Episode the Heat can be managed better by consuming massive amounts of water, MASSIVE! I can still stay relatively active and not feel wiped out like I do this moment.

It's because of one thing and it's my fault. Not enough AGUA.

Rules Are Also In Place In This Beautiful Place We Have Been Given The Chance To Co-Exist Peacefully In. All I Have to Do Is Follow Them. Not Make Up My Own Rules! Thankfully I Accepted This Quickly.

1) Drink Water
2) Follow The Rules
3) Crank the A/C :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

4) Remember what Bobby McFarrin said:

Bobby McFerrin - Don't Worry Be Happy (Official Video) - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-diB65scQU)

[rondvu2]

a few trips a year villager here. I have learned that contractors show up the same day, and you can get more than one! Amazing. In WV your lucky to even get them to show up within 2 weeks if they show at all. Really haven't noticed any more bugs or snakes than what we have in WV, I have had a snake in my garage in WV for a few years before I got him out. harmless black snake but always pops out when least expected.

[coffeebean]

Maybe for a day/week or so at a time they are the same, but simple/verifiable historical statistics show that the length of said weather conditions...are not even close to being comparable. :oops:

I remember growing up on Long Island, the heat in the summer was just oppressive. There was a heat wave one year that I will NEVER forget. It prompted my father to purchase room air conditioners for our home. After that, the summers were GREAT, just like they are here. Air conditioning is the key!

[coffeebean]

The only water I drink comes out of the front of the refrigerator .. You could run it forever from the tap and it would still be lukewarm !

TV cold tap water is actually cold in January and February when the overnight temps dip to the 30' and 40's.

[Tom C]

I have not discovered a way :ohdear: to put all the rain we are getting now BACK into the irrigation water system, and get a check for the "un-usage" amount :thumbup:

[Velvet]

Tom, yet... when you do I’ll follow you.

[NavyVet]

I learned there are dozens and dozens of swimming pools in TV, yet NONE of them are for actual swimming! The sport pools have water aerobics classes and/or volleyball all day and the neighborhood pools are filled with "walkers" and people standing around gabbing. Driving from pool to pool was an exercise in futility, so I gave up.
I also learned that whichever room in your house is farthest from the air handler/compressor never gets cool.