Reasons For and Against Living in Florida

Being down here again has reminded me of a couple of things that I really like about here, and wish were different at home. One of the simplest things: clear and vast choices of radio stations. This feature is practically non-existant at home. The stations are never clear all the time, mostly because we live in the boonies, are there are no longer any choices for my favorite: contemporary christian. I love listening to the radio down here, because it fools be into thinking its XM, even though its only local. Another plus: pave roads without frost heaves and cracks. This is the first expanse of time I've been able to run on paved roads. It is quite different from what I'm used to. I want to actually say its less work, whether thats good or bad. My muscles probably get a better work out at home. Another plus: incredible selection of restaurants and places to shop, just down the road. Our family LOVES to eat, so close proximity to such places is both wonderful and dangerous, but I must also add, delicious! I've had more fish this week than I've had in the past couple of months. :) Oh, and my vegan diet has been the victim of a few delectable desserts, which I've paid for in gastrointestinal discomfort (could have been avoided if I remembered to keep Lactaid in my purse). Another plus: clean vehicles. I have next to no incentive to wash my car during certain times of the year due to living on dirt roads. It would be pointless. One more plus before I move on to the opposing side: cool indoors and hot outdoors. Yeah, most people complain about this, but at least when its hot, you can go inside where its cool. We don't have air conditioning at our house, so when its hot, its just plain hot.

On the flip side, there's traffic. At home we hardly know what this is. There's the endless increase of expenses from living down here: high electric bills, higher prices for food, etc, (the gas is currently cheaper though). Despite the wonderful entertainment of the nearby theme parks, there is a limited selection of outdoor activities, which is something I love about home, especially the close proximity, like outside our front door. Change of seasons; I love the cooler weather of fall, the colors, and even the snow, for a little bit anyway; Christmas just isn't the same without it. And even though Mom and I usually have to drive to Albany or nearby to get to the stores we like, its probably a good things, because it keeps me from spending money too often. I'm sure there are probably other downsides too, but they aren't coming to mind at the moment. I guess its easier to see the positives while on vacation than if we were living here. I do love where we living, but I am equally happy to vacation somewhere different from home. :)

What is your opinion? Is Florida a great place to live? What problems or benefits have you found, and where would your dream place be to live?