I've been down here in Florida for almost three weeks now and have had all kinds of weather. The first week was in the mid 70's and then one evening we had some heavy downpours. When the storms hit the Northeast we had very cool mornings (in the 40's) and cool days and nights.
The first week I ran the air conditioner day and night, the next week I had the heat on in the morning to get the chill out. That's why when I pack for my winter stay here I need a little of everything. The one thing I did not pack was a warm robe - You should see my get-up in the morning or should I say you should NOT see my get-up in the morning. ;-) It doesn't pay for me to buy a robe now because before I turn around it will be HOT here.
THE MOVIES
Going to the movies in Florida is a lot different than when I am up north. First of all - There are three movie houses that are close by. Back home I have a good half hour ride to get to them.
When I plan to go to the movies here I have a short ride but I have to plan on arriving at least one half hour before show time. If you come any later you could wind up seating in the front row or the movie could even be sold-out.
No matter when I go to a film up north the theatre usually has a handfull of people - I don't understand why there is such a difference. The price of a ticket is a lot less in Florida but I don't think that's what makes the difference in attendance.
Retirees have more time on their hands and are looking to be entertained but I still think there has to be another reason. Maybe it's because they remember when movies were great and they are hoping to capture that feeling again. What do you think?
SAWGRASS MILLS OUTLET STORES
When Steve and Carol were visiting with me we took a ride to the outlet stores in Sunrise. The first thing that struck me was all the foreign languages I heard, second I saw many people with pieces of luggage. When I mentiioned it to Carol she told me that they COME to the mall with their luggage and put their purchases in the cases. Apparently their money goes further here.
I did a lot of people watching while Steve and Carol shopped. I saw a lot of young girls with very short skirts and very high heels - not only that - they were walking fast!!
I don't wear short skirts, don't wear high heels and certainly don't walk fast.
I do a great job sitting!!
I paid two dollars for a chair massage.
EATING OUT
My eating out has slowed down. As a matter of fact I'll be eating in tonight, not cooking, just heating up some lemon-pepper chicken that I bought today at Publix.
I'm ringing out the old year and in a few days 2010 will arrive.
Wishing you all good things in the coming year - good health, good fortune, happiness and loads of good luck!!