Middle-aged Newcomer needs friends!
 

I'm in my mid thirties and just arrived in the Villages a few weeks ago to live with my lovely parents until I get settled- for several months, at least. I have already found a part time job which I'll start in a week or so but I am feeling a little lonely. I know literally no one in Florida besides the people I have met through my parents and would like to meet my own circle of friends. I would love new friends of any age- I have a lot of interests (especially arts and crafts, movies, animals, books, nature, cooking) but I don't know if I would be welcome at club meetings due to my age...? I don't want to make anyone uncomfortable, including myself. My father also assures me that there are other younger people here in similar situations, but how to find them? I don't drink so hanging out at a bar isn't an option for me, nor do I attend church. Any advice regarding my situation would be gratefully received. Do clubs welcome non-retirees? Or maybe there is a club for children of Villagers? There seems to be one for everything! Or, if you know- or ARE- someone in a similar situation, maybe you could message me. :smiley: Thank you!

In The Villages, middle aged is 70. ;)

Welcome to the forum.

There are members on TOTV who have adult children living with them so I think you will receive a few responses. Also, you will be welcomed in the clubs. I've seen younger people in several of the clubs I attend. Of course I may give you a dirty look at Yoga when I see you turning yourself into a pretzel while I'm still trying to get down on the floor. :welcome:

Will you become a permanent resident?

Yes, I will become a permanent resident as I am likely to be here for a year or so at least. Also, I just noticed that this thread appeared in "Churches" rather than "Clubs" as I had intended. Very sorry about that, I have emailed the webmaster to ask him or her to either move it or delete it so I can have it in the relevant section.

Gracie,
I always get a kick out of someone who is 60 talking about being middle age??
I like to ask if they expect to live until 120....

Well, I "was" going to say church is a fabulous place to meet folks. If that could have been the case for you, I'd have suggested a church just outside T.V. where families and singles worship. BUT...since you don't do that, how about bowling?? How about frequenting the squares in the evenings (you don't have to drink) and strike up conversations with folks.

If you're out and about, shopping in the shops and see someone who may be young ask them! All the hair salons seem to employ younger folks as well.
Clubs...well I think you have to be a villages resident to belong to these but someone will probably correct me on this.

Getting settled and acquainted in "any" move takes time from my experience. So be patient and just keep on keeping on with trying to find your niche here. Best wishes!!

O.K. Technically, you are right. But the age in the MIDDLE of an over 55 community would be WHAT?

How about average age here?

And I WAS planning on living to be 120, Jack. Please don't let the air out of my balloon.

And If the OP is middle aged at 35 that means I am already a goner. :-(

You will not find any friendlier folks anywhere than TV. Don't hesitate to join any club or function because people will welcome you with open arms. Also, please plan to attend our luncheon at Crisper's every 3rd Friday of each month.

Hi, it is interesting that I have the same dilemma- some of it anyway. I am a resident who could be your mother so agewise there is no problem there for me. I have been to some meetings and functions and can't see where your young age should be a problem. What I am looking for, like you, is a way to meet other women other than at a bar or church who would like to go to a movie, dinner, antiquing, etc. I am married but have my own interests and so far -moved in in Sept- the women whom I have met usually socialize with their husbands. So maybe a new club for non drinkers, non church goers who want to "hang out" without the men?? So if anyone replies to your query with ideas for "women only" groups, I would appreciate it if you would let me know. Thanks, Gretchen gdollenes@yahoo.com

There are several posts by parents who had adult children living with them so meeting a younger group of people can be accomplishd. Although you are not a drinker, younger people go to Magarite Replublic. Not drinking doesn't mean you have to drink to meet people your age and similar interests.

Have you thought of volunteer work as a method of meeting younger people?

Gretchen,

I think that gender isn't much of an issue when joining clubs or classes here. I have a lot of friends here of both genders.

Age shouldn't be an issue either. If you use either for a criteria for friends you will assuredly cheat yourself.

Just try to listen with your heart to what others have to say and soon you will have friends here.

Kind wishes,
Gracie

Me too
 

To Gretchen, I'll go to all those things. We just went down to Webster Flea Market today and enjoyed it.
To Ct-jewel My son (incredibly handsome I must say) is 36 and he is in the same boat. He got his permanent ID and is participating in golfing, trivia and going to Spanish Springs after 9:00. Margarita Republic and Applebees both have a younger crowd gather once we move out. He joined an adult soccer team and has met friends there. He works as a server at Arnold Palmer Country Club. He too does not go to church (:pray::pray::pray:) but I do pray for his immortal soul. If you would like I will add you. LOL Good luck. We always need subs for Mah Jongg if you would like to learn. We play low keyed at best. Welcome to the Villages.

Sally