Our First Year in The Villages - Not As Easy As We Made It Sound

After a year in The Villages our perspective has certainly changed. In some cases, looking back in hindsight, moving here was not as easy as we made it sound in earlier videos. Plus we'll answer some of your questions and inquiries. This is Our Year in The Villages.
00:00 Intro
01:10 Happy New Year & Thank You
02:22 Changed Perspectives
09:01 Not As Easy As We Made It Sound
11:18 What Do We Love the Most?
13:15 What Would We Change?
15:44 TOP 5 - Wish We'd Done Sooner
21:58 TOP 3 - Glad We Didn't Do
27:42 TOP 5 - Still Haven't Done
31:10 New Year Toast To You
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/ toretirementandbeyond
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Roy & Karen Cooper: To Retirement & Beyond, All Rights Reserved
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#GolfCartLife #thevillages #retirement #florida

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

00:00 Intro 01:10 Happy New Year & Thank You 02:22 Changed Perspectives 09:01 Not As Easy As We Made It Sound 11:18 What Do We Love the Most? 13:15 What Would We Change? 15:44 TOP 5 - Wish We'd Done Sooner 21:58 TOP 3 - Glad We Didn't Do 27:42 TOP 5 - Still Haven't Done 31:10 New Year Toast To You The best way to reach us is via our Facebook page. There you can write to us publicly and privately. facebook.com/ToRetirementAndBeyond Visit our Amazon store for all the products shown in our videos plus a list of all the equipment we use to make our videos: www.amazon.com/shop/toretirementandbeyond

[@ronaldhall2489]

I think the prices on r v are going to be dropping so don't get in a hurry take your time ❤

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

@@ronaldhall2489 Thank you, Ronald. We got a tremendous deal on a 2020 BT Cruiser 5240 with 6000 miles. Paid $63K - had a certified inspector check it out. You can take a tour here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmnSqKeens5ma5Y We think you'll agree we got a good deal.

[@AyaSmith-rb2hp]

Sorry about the loss of your mother and the illness of your children. That is so difficult! I have lost a lot of family and it takes time and slowing down to absorb all of that. At 65 and single living in Florida, I am looking for a 55 community. Like the idea of moving into a brand new community. Thank you for your authenticity and sharing. ❤

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you! :) We still feel we made the best decision to move here. We just got back from a trip to Texas for our youngest daughters wedding. We always feel so much better after a visit with our kids.

[@catherinehillier9155]

Karen - condolences on the loss of your Mother. Something that has caught me completely off guard after my parents’ death is that there isn’t a day go by that I experience something very special - a memory we shared, preparing a recipe I learned from them, hearing a song we enjoyed, a joke they would have loved, an accomplishment they would have celebrated with me - the experiences are endless and I value every one of them ….. I hope you find the same peace and love as you continue your life adventures. It’s a lovely gift I would have never expected.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Catherine, thank you for those words of wisdom. :) Karen

[@carolapostolos8929]

I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of your mother Karen. I wish you and Roy a very happy, healthy 2023. Thank you for the wonderful videos you share.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We appreciate your sentiments. Thanks for being a loyal viewer. Happy New Year Karen

[@Anthony-ko3ep]

One of your best shows, happy & healthy 2023 to you both.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks Anthony! :) Happy New Year

[@breegillam2701]

Thank you two for sharing and contributing to our lives ❤.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Awwww :) BTW, tell Mark to bring his hard drive over so I can fill it up.

[@blueeyesblueskiesahead1612]

You two are a joy to watch - and an inspiration! Love your honesty ❤

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you so much! :)

[@dancurran8977]

Thank you for all of your informative and entertaining videos this past year!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank YOU Dan! Happy New Year

[@michaelseibel858]

Roy and Karen - Happy New Year and thanks for this excellent one-year video! It was a pleasure to have finally met you two in person a few weeks ago at the Spazmatics concert at Brownwood. It was like meeting familiar friends. It is is uncanny how my journey at The villages has/is paralleling your experiences. I closed on a brand new Richmond home just a few weeks ago. I’m back in Colorado now, and will be moving everything out in just a few days. I am so excited about all the activities and clubs to join , but need to be cautious and take it easy and not over-extend my self at first. I am moving not knowing a single sole, so it was interesting to me that your perspective has changed from ‘things to do” to “people to do things with” - that was eye-opening to me, and I hope that will also be my focus as well. I have been to the Sharon already multiple times (saw Christoper Cross there a few months ago, and he was terrific), and I bought season tickets for the Philharmonic. I just tried the new seafood restaurant in Spanish Springs a few weeks ago, and it was just as good as Harvest in my opinion. Ask about their daily specials. Thanks again for all you do, and look forward to once again bumping into you when your out and about!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Congrats Michael. So excited and happy for you. :) Short story: Last night we went out with a couple who are new dear friends [like our new family] for NYE. During dinner they reflected on our first meeting. We, Roy & Karen, knocked on their door and said HI and introduced ourselves. The rest is history. But they are the kind of peeps that wouldn't have done that - and they were still so grateful that we did. You are moving to a brand new neighborhood - get out there and DO IT.

[@pauline4848]

Been with you both since day one, Enjoy your video's and looking forward Roy and Karen to those golf cart rides, I felt for you Karen over your Mom, it's tough to let our dear loved ones go, I lost my Mom in 2019 at 97 years old. You have both come a long way since your arrival at TV and those wonderful friends you have made are making a positive difference in your lives, I truly wish you both good health, happiness and many blessings as we begin 2023🙏❤

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank YOU Pauline! We always look forward to your positive, uplifting comments. :) Happy New Year

[@janetpartyka5968]

I lost my mom a year ago in October 2021 at 99 years old. She is now with her two sons, parents, and so many loved ones and I know she is happy. I miss her very much, but am grateful for the times I had with her.

[@Poppo2468]

So Glad the both of you are here...Happy New Year to my wonderful friends...!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you buddy! :) Happy New Year

[@rebeccaporter8605]

Happy New Year! Looking forward to good times!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank YOU Rebecca! Happy New Year

[@barbaravasonscott6762]

Thank you , Roy and Karen for sharing so genuinely in your videos. This one is very special and obviously heartfelt. Best wishes in2023!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you Barbara :) Happy New Year

[@michaeltheboatinglife9359]

I’m 57 and retiring this year. You not not inspire me but gave me the idea of the Villages…maybe not right now as I have to live on the water with my boat parked out back on the water…but after many years of that, then perhaps the Villages

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

@@michaeltheboatinglife9359 This would be a lot different than being on the water. ;)

[@kentbowen2731]

Happy new year you young lovebirds! Always enjoy the videos. See you in the neighborhood. We have also been here one year now. Of course, that would be about all of us in the hammock.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We were just thinking that - It's Everyone's Anniversary!!!

[@charlesbartholomew2910]

Thank you for putting your hearts out for us. Most appreciated. Thanks for the video.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We try to "keep it real". Thanks Charles. :)

[@lauralampe1664]

Happy New Year Karen & Roy! Karen, I am sorry to hear about your mom...my condolences to you. Thank you for the reflections on your first year in The Villages, especially about your friends. I loved hearing "Auld Lang Syne"...reminded me of my mom who always watched Guy Lombardo on New Year's Eve.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Awesome Mom Memories! Thank you, Karen

[@lauragb3677]

I really enjoyed this video with your lists. Interesting thoughts on enclosing the lanai…it’s a conversation we have, my mom enclosed hers, I’m not sold on the idea. No surprise you’ve made so many friends, you two are wonderful people. I’m glad the transition to Florida and TV has been a good one for you. Best in 2023 to you! 🥂

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank YOU Laura! Happy New Year

[@barbaras8932]

I’ve been watching your channel since day one. I very rarely comment on KZbin videos, but I wanted you to know how much I enjoy your channel and all you share. Karen, I’m so sorry about your mom. I understand and feel your pain. I lost my mom just before Christmas 2016 and my dad 9 months later. My husband and I hope to move to the Villages by the end of this year. We love playing Hand and Foot and hope we can find some people to play with down there. Wishing you both a Happy and Healthy 2023! God bless ❤️

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Appreciate you sharing your sentiments and experience. You will love it here. :) Karen

[@catherinehillier9155]

Happy New Year …. Thank you!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you too!!! Happy New Year

[@painlesscotton]

Thanks for Keeping It Real! Real lift issues and joys!! Keep moving forward!!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you!

[@karencrane7019]

Thank you for making this wonderful video, Roy & Karen. I found it so interesting and informative!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Our pleasure! Glad you liked it. :)

[@brendawright6]

Happy new year and many blessings to you both . My condolences for the loss of your Mom . I understand completely the loss of words . Keep your memories in your heart. So enjoy your show . Thank you so much . ❤️🙏🥂

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you for kind words. Great suggestion. Karen

[@bestofflorida7650]

I know how very hard it is too.

[@nightengale2123]

Great video as always!! Wishing you both a happy, healthy, and blessed New Year . 🥰

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank YOU! Happy New Year

[@nf2885]

Happy New Year to you both. May all your wishes come true. 🥂

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank YOU Nina! Happy New Year

[@brianglombowski154]

It's nice to watch you kids grow. You seem happy and relaxed. We envy you. We're a few years behind you in our plans to move there. Your stories and information are invaluable. Thank you for sharing. God bless you and Happy New Year.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Yeah, us kids are going through our second childhood. Bless you too, buddy. Happy New Year

[@PederE007]

I have been in The Villages for eight months. I am with you. The Villages are great. My neighbors are great. God bless all.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Welcome Peter! :)

[@sarahj.8372]

Happy Happy New Year...I enjoy you so much,,,thanks for that intro..and lovely clothes and home!!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you so much! :) Happy New Year

[@johnbird8097]

We are only able to visit every year, but I am happy that you were able to make the move. It is truly a special place for people that don’t want to spend their later years in a ‘rocking chair’. It looks like you are enjoying your new lifestyle. Congrats….

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks :) It really is special. Other places may come close, but..... At least you get to come here every year and enjoy it.

[@MarksDavid]

Love your perspective. Especially about the moving into the neighborhood.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks :)

[@kristinecampbell5585]

!st time watching and I thoroughly enjoyed this presentation. Thanks for taking the time to do this. Best wishes for 2023!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks for letting us know. :) Hope you'll stick around, Kristine.

[@toddandcecile2855]

Happy New Year! We’re so sorry for the loss of your mom, Karen. Cecile lost her mom in December of ‘21 at 90. It’s been an incredibly hard year, but 2023 will be better. We’re already counting the days to when we’ll be back in The Villages in April! Wishing you both the best!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

So you know the pain of loss too. :( Happy New Year Karen

[@cecileellington8223]

Yes, my mom was my best friend (aside from hubby of course) for 58 years of my life. We were very close. 😢 I totally understand the pain. My prayers are with you 🙏 May you both have a happy new year too!

[@sylvain65]

Loved this reality video ❤ Thanks guys

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@christinemowbray6116]

Great topic .. I will still be working when / if I move to The Villages . I wondered how I would reconcile with the fact that most activities are held during the day . But the emphasis on connection with others over just being busy is very important. Thanks for your candor . Also leaving the children and grandchildren 😢

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks :) You have a little catching up to do. We just bought an RV and have a plan to visit our kids in Texas this May - just around the corner. Now we can visit and take da boys [Colt & Yukon] with us. We are so excited.

[@DobeMom]

Happy New Year!!!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Happy New Year!!

[@elaineskurski6555]

Great video. Wish I was there. Happy New Year!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you Elaine! :) Happy New Year

[@annpresley728]

Your best video to date! Happy Nee Year!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Wow, thanks! :) Happy New Year

[@BUFFY12338]

Happy New Year!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Happy New Year!

[@kerstinlampert7337]

Great motivational story! Thanks for sharing!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks Kerstin! Happy New Year

[@ronniedelaplain6722]

Happy New Year have a great 2023

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Happy New Year

[@danoozark5827]

Happy New Year Thanks...........................................

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Happy New Year

[@Carla_Testa]

I’m so glad y’all have found such happiness and friendship in TV. I adore you both and look forward to each and every video. Karen, I lost my mom to cancer in Oct of ‘17 and still feel that loss daily. We have my 98 year old WWII veteran daddy in an assisted living facility nearby. Happy New Year guys!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We have the best viewers. :) It's great being able to share stories back and forth. Thanks for sharing yours. Karen

[@m.ramirez2375]

Hey Folks, Happy New Year!!! We live in South Florida coincidentally we too have similar feelings. Understand your point completely I think everyone's situation is unique. First and foremost I personally couldn't adapt to having distance from our kids. But that's just me my wife is on the other side. I really believe that people our age are fortunate to have options. Your video illustrates that it is possible to have options. I guess in a nut shell we feel blessed to live in Florida. We thank you for sharing your life's experiences with no spin. God Bless You, be safe, be well!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks for the thoughtful comment. Blessings to you both.

[@AEO123]

Happy New Year 🎉🎉🎉

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you Ann! :) Happy New Year

[@janicecroissiert9116]

Wishing you both a wonderful 2023. We had a lifestyle visit this past November, and while we enjoyed it, we aren’t ready for that move just yet. We are retired and love living in Southeast Fla. plus, our sons live down here. And, finally made some really nice friends. Plus, restaurants are really great, there is a Trader Joe’s in our neighborhood 😂, We have theater too. And, you can get almond champagne at Coopers Hawk. And, best of all, we live near the beach. But, we might consider the Villages someday. And, will visit again. If we decide to move there, will definitely rent for a month. I enjoy your shows, thanks

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you Janice. :) It's not for everyone, nothing is, but it fits us so well. Happy New Year

[@janicecroissiert9116]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond happy for you both. But, like I said, maybe someday we will move there. Will definitely visit again though.

[@klaytonpeterson]

I love the Jerry and Linda videos and that's how I found your wonderful videos..🎉

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you! :) We think they are great too.

[@AClark-bq6oc]

Thanks for a great video😁

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@jbenevy]

You both look so much better! I watched the video about you trying to decide where in the villages to live. Now you look so healthy and honestly a bit younger. I can wait to get my $ in order to move there.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Probably because we have a better camera and getting better at shooting videos. Thank you! :)

[@jacquelineglitter4328]

I live on a dirt road in Arizona on a acre. I love the peace and quiet. I'll probably die here. I don't want to be around people or traffic.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Nice that you found your happy place.

[@LandGirlGB]

So I’m sitting here with Hamish on my lap on New Years Day evening at 7:05 pm and clicked onto KZbin - I saw you guys had a new video out and was like, Yeah!!! Then the music started playing, the champagne was popping and the romance for a minute there I had to ask myself, am I on the right channel? Do I need to send Hamish out of the room? 🐶😮. LOL You two are so sweet!!! 😂. Happy New Year! May it be filled with good health, happiness and peace! 🍾🎊💕🐶

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Great story - we're LOL :) Happy New Year

[@ronaldhall2489]

When you quit making mistakes you are not alive doing things just don't make the same ones and learn from the ones you make ❤

[@thevillagesdeluna]

Great year in review guys...Keep it going and thanks for all the great info!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks for being a part of our year, TB! :)

[@4everu984]

I live in a peaceful isolated rain forest and like Karen brave the storm of a monthly Costco trip......we eat like mid evil kings for weeks! On occasion I have to hit the close pricey store and instant pain. Sending Karen love for missing your precious Mother and pain of missing children.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Our youngest is here for the weekend and Karen is loving every second! :) And thank you for sweetness to Karen - she got warm and fuzzy reading your comment.

[@debritz1343]

Thanks for your honesty...My husband enjoys golfing there but my heart is not at The Villages because I don't want to miss watching my grandkids grow up..but I'm happy you seem happy at The Villages

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

It's not for everyone - but we love it and we don't golf.

[@nancyconca9892]

Nice video - hope you two have been doing some of the things you had not done as of January 1, 2023 ‼️👍👏🏻🤩

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Pretty much the things we hadn't done at that point, we still haven't done, BUT...... We've done so many other things. You have a lot to catch up on. :)

[@TexasbyStorm]

Auld Lang Syne makes me tear up every time. Nostalgic to my core!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

OMG, everyone is crying LOL

[@pennyweldon8587]

What a fabulous beginning of 2023🎉🎊🥳We must try the Almond Champagne!! Been writing Trader Joe’s once a month to try to get them here!!! I too miss Costco & Trader Joe’s too but detest traveling over an hour to shop there. Costco is being built in Clermont so that will be closer to us. We are loving our Village of ST John’s too!! Discovering new people and lots of fun activities‼️We so agree with researching on the various KZbinr’s and benefited from all of it🤩🤩Also, love your Top 5 lists!!!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you Penny! :) Living the dream in St John - WOO HOO!!! Happy New Year

[@jodip.3378]

Yes, I have lived here for one year. We love our home. The Villages is a retirement community. But, 20% of the residents can be under 55 if they sign a waiver. Young adults are able to live with their parents indefinitely. Also, Air B & B’s are allowed here. Homes are being sold to corporations and they use the homes as Air B & B’s. This corporations are making loads of money at our expense. These homes will have multiple families staying at one time and any age children can also stay. It is like living next to a hotel’s pool. Constant screaming and partying. Yes, retiring to a perfect home and hearing this everyday. Most people will say, “just move.” Sounds easy, but if this is your only home you must wait two years to sell or you will pay capital gains which is no small price. The Villages will not do anything about this situation. So think a long time before purchasing in The Villages.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks for watching

[@dennispacelli1007]

great damn comment I cannot stand AirB/B

[@jbenevy]

It should be against the rules to have an investment home there. No air b&bs should be allowed. I would start a petition to fight it.

[@dennispacelli1007]

@@jbenevy I am coming down 6/1 for 3 months BUT NOT Air no way I won't do it. I'm single/respectful(renting from an owner) and I cannot imagine your disgust with what you are living with! Personally I think T V should NOT allow these programs to be aired on Y T IMO it is ruining its reputation, period!

[@dewholdingsllc1050]

@@jbenevy sorry but in my State Texas, the highest Court has ruled long ago now a STR is a residence and is used for residential purposes. City council or HOA can tax them and license them but can’t enforce banning them. if I own a property I would sue anyone trying to remove my property rights of renting it out. These rights are protected under the US Constitution and most States. If any government imposes restrictions so onerous it constitutes a taking of a property right its unlawful.

[@franciscoivancruz]

God Bless you and your family

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you so much :)

[@charlierosa9076]

Love you guys

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you, Charlie! :)

[@lauralampe1664]

Regarding open vs closed lanai, when I look at home listings in The Villages, I always look to see what has been done to the lanai...enclosed, not enclosed or converted to a Florida room. I prefer a more open lanai, and when I rented a courtyard villa in July, 2021, I spent quite a bit of time on the open lanai. Fingers crossed I can rent a home again in The Villages with an open lanai this coming summer for a couple of weeks.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Good Luck! :)

[@makdaddy8399]

I couldn't agree more. Friends and family make the world go round.....It is interesting though, a large percentage of young people today are more into the "experience" than establishing relationships.....maybe that changes with age. LOL....the wife and I toured the Wilson Creek winery back in the late 90's and have been consuming their awesome Almond Champagne ever since....love it.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Yep, Wilson Creek, that was the place. :) We kept working our way up north as our wine taste buds improved. Happy New Year

[@ChynnaBlue1]

The part about being glad you moved into a new village because everyone was new was really interesting and not something I thought about before. Thanks for making this video and giving me a lot of things to think about.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Glad you were able to glean some good info from it. :)

[@dentman67]

Great honest video. On the RV. As someone who also likes to travel with a pet here's the easy button. An SUV, and Air B&B's make the most financial sense and are super easy. With that said, I get the appeal of an RV. The bathroom and being able to pull over for a rest is very appealing.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks. :) You've got some catching up to do - we did buy an RV. LOL

[@dentman67]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond LOL, yes I do. Congrats, enjoy.

[@cynthiaamitrano8915]

I’m sorry about your mom, Karen. I didn’t know she had passed last winter. My mother died in 1996 and it feels like yesterday. I not only lost my mother, but also my best friend. I understand. You look very nice. I like your hairstyle and your blue top is very attractive. If I were ever to relocate to The Villages, my life would be more sedate. I’d move for the warmth and the one story living. I would enjoy my expensive home. I’d join a few clubs, but I likely wouldn’t golf as I never have. I’d enjoy the lovely evenings and the sunrise. I’d be outside as much as possible. I live in Duluth Minnesota and it’s cold here at least 9 months of the year, bitterly about 2 to 3. It hurts. The pandemic quashed my plans by making it financially unattainable. But I don’t hate it here. I’m just so tired of being cold.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you for your kind words. :) Hugs as you think about your best friend. So glad you don't hate it there.....and dreaming about being in The Villages is not a bad thing. Karen

[@inspectr1949]

Happy for you 2, stuck here in upper NY State as the home won't sell, interesting that your home equity increased there by 25%..

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Fingers crossed for you. You're not alone. Lot's of people around the country in the same boat. Here in The Villages they can't build fast enough.

[@inspectr1949]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond Have heard that about the villages but wonder but can't help but wonder who can afford them in this miserable economy unless your a NY State Legislature who just gave themselves a $32,000 pay increase.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

@@inspectr1949 You know what they call 100 dead politicians at the bottom of the pool? A good start. I will tell you, lots of people are coming in with cash to buy here.

[@inspectr1949]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond I'm not one of them (in cash).

[@BB-qu3go]

Ty ! For sharing your life experiences and life in villages. Been with u since lifestyle visit.. KAREN Sorry for loss . I lost my son in April. 😇 Isaiah 61 🙏❤ " see u when I get there". Blessings from Southern California.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Sorry for your loss and blessings on your year as well. Karen

[@MsIcanDoIt]

We have no family except a busy son and his family in MT. WE need a life reset ….. we visited and am selling our place in Colorado …. So excited…

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

So exciting!

[@AllergicToMakeBelieve]

I live in Niwot Colorado now... 62 years old and ready for a change and to get away from the dry air. Did you move? How do you like it? :)

[@karynsperry7676]

Love you guys. Love your channel. Such a cute couple!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

You are so kind :)

[@janetpartyka5968]

Your place is so pretty.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Awww, thanks so much! :) Happy New Year

[@jimdecastro]

As a person who made the mistake" and bought a lot in Newell I think I know your daughter's name. I live very close to "her". I completely agree it's the people that make The Villages great.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Did you guess Bridget?

[@jimdecastro]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond I confess - I thought Colleen. I am building on VanBeck Circle.

[@charlesbartholomew2910]

There is a reason golf has been called the "game of a lifetime." It takes one's lifetime to figure it out, but one never truly does. It is a wonderful game. Have fun with it!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We are starting off late in life, and without the mobility of youth. But we'll keep going.

[@arribaficationwineho32]

My first husband was a GREAT golfer and athlete. I am awkward. I will admit I loved watching him play but I was young.

[@emilymanley8646]

yay Temecula..Its like 20 mins North of me. Love it....Happy Belated New Years! Is there a Trader Joe's in Orlando?

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you, Emily! :) We started our "wine journey" in Temecula. There's a TJ in Orlando, an hour south, and Gainesville, an hour north.

[@dsmith6601]

Yes, I know I could never move because as an only child I had my parents to think of.Most of my adult decisions really have been based on being close to my parents and available to them and my in-laws. They have all since passed and now honestly it’s just too late for me to make a move. It sounds lovely though.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Maybe you should visit. Spend a week vacation here. You might enjoy it.

[@mjemigh3304]

Thanks! Lots of good info. I really appreciate this video and plan to check out your others. I'm seriously considering moving there very soon as a recent widower. I've heard that there is a magic group there. Ever hear anything about that? I retired during the pandemic, but magic was my livelihood and is now just my life. Hopefully, either you or someone in your audience has some info. Cheers!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Welcome. With over 3000 groups to check out, we'll bet you'll find like minded magicians.

[@mrembach1]

Almond Champagne! Yes! Sounds Great! What is the name of the almond champagne? Sorry to hear of your Mom, we all get it. It's very hard!! Too bad Trader won't move just outside the Villages here! Agree with you about the golf cart! and about the "people" who you will do something with. Don't miss our daughter because she lives in Germany! Nothing holding us back from moving away from our home town.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Wilson Creek Almond Champagne

[@ja6368]

You couldn’t fool me with your clickbait😂Keep on keeping positive👍

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Our loyal viewers know better! :) Happy New Year

[@goofygirl1311]

There's a Costco that will be opening in Daytona Beach (February I think?). You can take back roads to get to it if I'm not mistaken. You could also fit in a visit to the beach if you wanted to.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

There's a Costco in Clermont now - it's only 30 minutes away.

[@goofygirl1311]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond That's great!

[@busboy4]

We are Costco shoppers too from Marsh Bend and find the Wesley Chapel location (75 N of Tampa) a lot more convenient and less crazy than the Orlando Millenia location. No Trader Joe’s near there though ☹️

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Good to know!

[@beckypetersen2680]

New viewer here - what are your jobs? Welcome to FL. I'm FROM Pasco County but currently live in Europe. Karen - your hair is gorgeous!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks for joining us. Karen does mortgages and Roy is in doors and moldings.

[@ronaldhall2489]

Between Texas and Florida along interstate 10 I live in Mobile there are many nice places to live as a senior I am 63

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Ronald, there's a happy place for everyone.

[@evanbell8012]

You guys are funny :)

[@sharonscain7673]

There is nothing like community! We need people in our lives! Just do your own thing!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

It's a community within a community. Our little village within The Villages.

[@davidfrediani4965]

Thanks for the review! I'm going on a lifestyle visit in September. How about renting an RV? Would it be less expensive?

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

You will have a wonderful time. :) To rent an RV you're looking at $200+/night - might as well stay at an AirBnb for a lot less. That being said, we did buy our RV this past February. We've been having a blast with it.

[@goofygirl1311]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond Where do you store your RV? We have a 24 foot travel trailer and I'm curious about recommended storage areas and monthly cost.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

@@goofygirl1311 You can find uncovered storage for as little as $50/month. Covered storage starts at around $150/month, but mostly over $200. We were paying $90 for covered until they tried to raise the price on us - and we were driving over 30 minutes away because of the great price. We recently moved the RV to uncovered storage, but just 1 mile away for $100/month

[@goofygirl1311]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond Thank you! That is good info to have.

[@curbappeal1010]

Hello! I plan on moving in a couple years from Round Rock. Good info about the enclosed lanai and the hometown feel. I've been to TV twice now and actually really like the northern areas between Spanish Spring and Lake Sumpter since I want a more established area. I'm tired of all the construction I've lived through here in RR. Do you see any major downsides to that? You mentioned that everyone is new in your area which I like, but have you heard of people moving in the Northern areas not finding new friends or anything like that? Thanks for any help.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We're from Leander...not far from you. Roy started where you are, liking the northern sections and especially being close to Lake Sumter. Karen always wanted new construction. Downsides? There are pros and cons to north or south - you'll have to weigh them out based on your priorities. We know people that bought up north and love it. But we've also heard the opposite, but always from people that have a tough time reaching out to make friends. If you move down south to a new village EVERYONE is reaching out all at the same time. Good Luck! :)

[@juanplazas4593]

Hi! Love your channel! You mentioned The Villages feel like a small town, so, have you had any problems with nosey neighbors, ill-intentioned gossiping and such issues onky happen in "compact" communities? Greetings from Bogotá, Colombia!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We have not experienced that. And because of our KZbin channel we leave ourselves more open to that then others. The people here are welcoming.

[@juanplazas4593]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond awesome. Although I'm not American, I live in a tropical country and I'm 40yo, I find these kind of retirement communities fascinating. I wish I could retire in a place like The Villages. Believe me, If I could do it now, Ill do it without hesitation. Anyways, you have a new subscriber. Thanks for the great content!

[@lisasindoniliberio426]

I saw a house for sale in a village with same name as my daughter and that is where I wanted to go too. So I know how you felt. But I didn't go there.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

It was fun to dream about it :)

[@TheBerkeleyBeauty]

You both seem like such a genuine and amazing couple. My husband and I are from the San Francisco Bay area. Both born and raised in Berkeley, we tend to lean left, politically. We’re interested in a community where we can stay active in our 50s and beyond, but also foster new friendships. Would we be welcome there? Would we feel uncomfortable? An honest answer would be appreciated. Thanx 🙂

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We see many negative videos and/or comments regarding the lack of diversity and politics in The Villages. Some people are just naturally negative and look for things to complain about. Facts: We have two black couples in our little neighborhood and they do all the same things that the rest of us do. Go to block parties, ride their golf carts, landscape their yards, smile at everyone and enjoy the good life here. We also have many gay couples in the neighborhood and ditto for them. Everyone is invited to all the parties and get togethers. We're all in this together. But here's the deal, we don't ask them who they voted for as we have more important things to do - like having fun in the sun. Are there Trump flags here? Yes. Are there Biden flags here? Yes. To be honest, we don't want to associate with people that wish to divide us. That being said, if it's important for YOU to associate only with those that agree with your politics then you will be out of place. Not because you are liberal or conservative - but because most of us came here to get away from all that BS and concentrate on living "Our Best Lives!"

[@TheBerkeleyBeauty]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond - That sounds amazing, and very good to hear. We’re in a sort of echo chamber here in the SF Bay, and we’ve heard some really weird things about Florida. Thank you so much for your prompt and honest answer. We may be neighbors soon🙂

[@Denman58]

You're nice people.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks :)

[@janfrost9231]

St.Petersburg new driving range Carillon!

[@thefarmerswifeknits6190]

One guy moved to the Villages and actually has NO neighbors on his street… all bought up and short term rentals!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

If you're talking about the gentleman in Richmond, yes, we've spoken with him. Hard to control life, but he's an optimistic fellow.

[@breegillam2701]

Publix is just too expensive. We need to find a cheaper grocery store. Mark and I need to try pitch and putt. Did you two take lessons? Do you have your own clubs?

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Publix is crazy expensive - the best alternative is the Walmart Neighborhood Market - at least for us. Aldi's is ok, but we can't fill our weekly list there. We had "driving" lessons from our kids before we left Texas. They taught us how to hold the club and how to swing - but we've forgotten it all anyways. We bought individual clubs at different Goodwill stores. We'd be happy to go with you guys - as long as you have low expectations of us. ;)

[@karencolwell5895]

Hi, my name is Karen. I’m 66 and a widow. I enjoy your podcasts. I’m considering moving to the Villages. But, it seems that most people are couples/married? Are the Villages a place for an active widow to move to?

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Yes, most are couples, but there is a large singles population too. If either of us were to find ourselves alone, we think this would be a great place to live out the rest of our life.

[@mrchitlin6255]

I play your videos at 1.5 speed.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Do we sound like the chipmunks?

[@annehajdu8654]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond, no. You sound like normal speed. You naturally sound way too slow.

[@josephschmidt2183]

Sounds like a great place to live I want to do a lifestyle visit in 2025.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

It's coming up on 2 years for us and couldn't be happier.

[@angietiller2332]

Leaving family, that seems so hard

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Yes, but there was no guaranty that they were gonna stay in the area. We can't follow them around, just like they're not gonna follow us around. The older they got the less we saw them, naturally. We are planning a trip as we speak.

[@barryfohn4385]

I had friends who bought a 20 acre lot in Temecula. A few years later it was a crowded mess. Florida is even worse. Most of the state feels like a parking lot. Trying to pretend that it is not that way is not fooling anyone. I lived in the Fort Lauderdale area in the 70s. I went back for a visit in 2000 and it was sickening. Jam packed with ex New Yorkers trying to pretend that they didn't live in a parking lot.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Barry, every BIG CITY is crowded - that's why they are called big cities. But we are talking about The Villages - have you been here?

[@barryfohn4385]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond Nice try...ha ha. You know EXACTLY what I mean.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

@@barryfohn4385 Not even a clue what you're talking about. Hard to have a conversation with someone that doesn't answer the question. Thanks for watching

[@barryfohn4385]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond I understand that you people are trying to make a buck. To sell small spaces in Florida to people who don't know any better will probably work. People who come from somewhere nasty might even think that moving there is an "up-grade". People who have seen Florida before it turned into what it is now know what I mean. I'm fairly sure that you do also.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

​@@barryfohn4385 Did you just say "you people" and we're trying to make a buck? I'm fairly sure you're lost and fell into the wrong KZbin channel.

[@lyndaseringa7929]

As fellow dog owners we are just curious what you meant by you almost lost your dogs when you were on your cruise. Glad they are ok.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

You can hear the whole story here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pmfNg6p_j8enrac

[@lyndaseringa7929]

Thank you for the reply. We will watch that video.

[@suzannereeves7768]

Great video! How did you relocate with the two dogs? We had to move with two cats and a young dog….we drove so I didn’t have to put them on the plane. Very stressful when you have pets and trying to plan to make sure your “fur babies” are going to be okay!

[@lilysgram5886]

I disagree with you about not enclosing the lanai. We waited 2 years after we moved to finally do it. Got tired of cleaning it and not sitting out there in Summer. We tiled the floor first then closed it in with sliding doors. Put insulation in lanai attic. At the same time we put in a Mitsubishi mini split ( heat & a/c). Wouldn’t have gotten through Covid without my lanai. Use the lanai 365 days a year. Open the doors and it’s completely open.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

There are certainly lots of people that feel like you do. We changed our minds, and who knows, we might change it again.

[@dennispacelli1007]

I enjoy it when Karen talks.....

[@fredchester921]

So, it's unique that you're living in a retirement community but still working. Both of you. That's unusual in that most folks in retirement areas are retired. That gets to my question of costs and annual incomes. The "elephant in the room" for all these related videos is HOW MUCH DO YOU NEED TO HAVE ANNUALLY as income for the types of choices you are telling us about? That includes Social Security, pension, savings, etc. Since you two are still working, you probably haven't taken SS yet, or at least I'm assuming you will be the time you reach your FRA (Full Retirement Age). Or, are you already taking SS, and having your monthly checks adjusted based on your income from your job? Anyway, the question still stands at --- to live as you are now --- how much annual income does one have to have? Or as a couple? Thanks, and great video.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Fred, all good questions. The short answer, I'm sorry to say, is: it depends. Everyone's circumstances are unique. For us, the timing was perfect and we were able to sell our home in Texas during the high prices of 2022 and downsize here to no mortgage. There are many people here that are still working - or decided after retirement that they missed working so went back. It's not as unusual as you'd imagine. We are not taking SS yet, Karen is not old enough to get Medicare - she's my child bride. ;) We are just building our 401K's until the time comes to retire. We are enjoying the #golfcartlife while we still work. It's a wonderful place The Villages.