Hi! Why would I want to take a cruise...I live in "Paradise" wink

Well, we are going to the Mediterranean on the Radisson Seven Seas Voyager this month...in just a few days...because I want to see Florence "before I die" (I'm NOT dying, just a life goal.)

About us...

We are in our 50's and for most of our lives, lived outside of Chicago. We fell in love with Sarasota after vacationing on Siesta Key (south of Longboat). At the first opportunity (corporate "golden handshake"), we jumped at the chance to move here (Sarasota) permanently.

I am a retired OB RN and a homemaker. Our children refer to us as the "Cleavers". My interests include extensive online medical research (traditional and alternative) as my sister is ill. I love to learn. In addition, I sign (as in sign language) with a group of gals at our church. We sign to hymns (a fun way to learn sign language). It is so beautiful to watch and the congregation loves the "performances".

My favorite places are Epcot (WDW) and Las Vegas (for the shows, people watching and quarter slots)...Florence to be added to my list?

We have 2 children - a son, 25, and a married daughter, 28, who lives in NC. Our son lives with us as he has disabilities. We have a 1 year old grandaughter and I LOVE being a grandmother. Our daughter and grandaughter are coming to FL to stay with her brother while we are on the cruise.

My husband "retired" from 30 years in the corporate world and after 1 year, decided to sell new houses (following his passion for building). His "office" is now a $3.7 million dollar model home. This area is absolutely taking off with many baby boomers retiring here from the NE and Midwest. He has many funny stories to tell when he comes home from "work".

My mother lived with us for 4 years when she was ill, but now that she is better, she moved into a nearby retirement center (guaranteed stepped up care). I visit her every week and take her grocery shopping, to the bank, doctor, etc.

We have a dog, a Bichon, named "Charlie" who checks the pool for us every morning to make sure it is still full (looks in).