We didn’t do anything terribly exciting really: played some cards, read a lot, walked around the outdoor shopping center, and went joyriding in the golf cart. I have to say, just being in The Villages is an experience in itself. Let me explain:
The Villages is a community just for people over age 55; if you’re not 55, don’t even think about trying to take up residence. It has its own shops, restaurants, golf courses, swimming pools, recreation centers, nightly entertainment, newspapers, and more. For example, Boppa has taken up billiards and leatherworking, and Gigi takes part in a book club and Bridge club. It’s like its own little utopia for retirees. David said, “Is this what Heaven is like?” The best part by far was driving everywhere in the golf cart. Don’t worry, Dad/retired police officer/retired police officer who taught me how to drive, safety first. This place had its own golf cart paths so that you can get anywhere without having to merge (for the most part) with traffic. Folks there even pimp out their rides with cool paint jobs, shiny wheels, and remodeled bodies to look like real cars. It's pretty surreal.
But back to Christmas. We had a really great time, and we’re already planning to do it again next year. I would vote it the best Stelsel Christmas ever (but maybe I’m bias because I really do hate those Wisconsin winters).
Day 1: We celebrated my birthday. That makes birthday celebration #3 so far! Connie made my favorite: lasagna. And she made me this very yummy cake.
Day 2: Dave started painting his second room. He clearly enjoys it.
Day 2: We all went down to the outdoor shopping center. This just happened to be one of the first things I saw, which made me think of my Dad. Dad, this one's for you.
Day 2: David and I go for a ride on the golf cart. Like they say, "When in Rome...."
Day 3: We all gather around for a family picture. From left to right: Laura, Kirk, Dave, Gigi, Connie, Boppa, David, Dana
Categories: family time
Don't make me sue for photo credit!
ReplyDeleteYou were in Florida?! How did I miss this? I'm glad you have been soaking up the warm weather on all your vacations. We are freezing in WA and buried under a foot of snow!
ReplyDeleteAH! It posted before I was done. I also wanted to say that please promise me we will all retire to a place like this one day. I think you and I could really have some fun in a place like The Villages...playing bridge and drinking "coffee." Hehe!
ReplyDeleteSure looked like alot of fun! I wish Dave and Connie would come visit us sometime. We would love to show them our "Old Kentucky Home" and I've got plenty of painting Dave could do! Ha!
ReplyDeleteMOM
I agree with anonymous...They would love Kentucky and I have a few rooms that could use a fresh coat too LOL!!
ReplyDeleteLooks like fun! Oh Gigi and Boppa...I bet they are loving it down there. Can I retire down there with you guys too...I can learn bridge and LOVE coffee!!
Can't wait to see you guys! Love you!
Thanks for the great time in Florida.
ReplyDeleteLove Con