Deciding Where To Live

Throughout this year we've been talking and thinking much about where we want to live during our first step of retirement.  During our travels, we've identified many towns and cities that seem to fit us during the spring and summer months, but we're just not willing to brave those cold winter months. 

We recently visited The Villages and although I didn't think I would like the community, I found myself drawn to the many activities and opportunities for life enrichment.  So that option is still on the table. 

I recently helped my mom identify a retirement community for her next phase of life.  And listening to our friends discuss their thoughts about staying put or moving, I've been asking myself what I'm seeking in my next place to live.  Here's what I've identified so far, not in any particular order:

• Close to water, preferably within walking distance (after all, I am a Pisces)
• Lots of vegetation, preferably green and lush
• Community of believers in Jesus Christ where I can refresh my faith and support others
• Opportunities to interact with people of different lifestyles and backgrounds
• Good libraries as I no longer buy books and won't (yet?) read on an electronic device
• Open public spaces offering diverse outdoor activities
• Choices in things to do including educational, artistic, spiritual and physical activities

Now here's the final criteria that you may say doesn't fit with the others.

• Social problems where I can contribute my experience, time and skills to making life better.

That's right, I'm not attracted to a perfect community.  God willing, I should have a good 20 years to contribute to making improvements in my community.  I have no intention of wasting those years being self-indulgent -- well, maybe part of the time self-indulgent, but you know what I mean. 

For the foreseeable future we're staying put.  We simply haven't found a community that matches our lifestyle criteria better than where we are right now.  But like I said, The Villages is still a viable option down the road.  And let me know if you have other suggestions.   As long as I wouldn't have to acquire new warmer outer garments!