Winter in Florida?

[judy]

I have been thinking about going to Florida for a month in the winter. I love it here, but the winter is just too darn long! I was going to put if off until October or November, but a friend advised me that if I wait, it will never happen. You know how you keep putting things off, until it's just too late!

I do not know if I can afford it. The car needs a checkup. It's making some noises, the emergency and regular brakes need fixing, and I may get studded tires. That will cost! Then, of course, you never know what else will come up!

I think I am going to take my friend's advice though, and book a place and plan out a vacation. A lot of people get cabin fever depression and SAD up here. I know I do! I don't know where to go in Florida. I want Southern Florida because it's just about the warmest place I can drive to. I need a nice area where there is a beach, is dog friendly, and some shopping, etc. I would like a one room, or one bedroom condo with cooking facilities on the beach, preferably where there is a common area. I don't need to make friends for a month, but it would be good to see people to say hello to.

I looked at Key West - way too expensive! I'm looking at Sarasota now - I'm not sure of the neighborhoods, but it is less expensive, and supposedly a nice, active place to go to. I don't know if I want the other coast. Ft. Lauderdale, Boca Raton, etc. are too fancy, and I don't think I want to be at a seniors condo.
I am 63, but I just don't feel like it.

It is a scary prospect...driving down, with the dogs, staying in a strange place where I don't know anybody,etc. I'm also used to living in such a safe area. In my younger days, I would have just jumped in the car and gone!