I live in Leesburg, FL in a resident owned manufactured home community with our own marina on a river. We are about 20 minutes south of the Villages (this time of year takes a little longer!!). I have an aunt who lives in the Villages, and 1 cousin who has lived there over 10 years and another who just bought their new home in Wildwood. They all are very content with the lifestyle. We checked it out before we moved to FL 11 yrs ago, and felt that it really wasn't for us. But being only 1/2 hr away, we're able to take advantage of a lot of the social activities, and any store you could possibly want to shop in is either in the area or coming. Just give yourself ample opportunity to weigh your options. The Villages may be just what you want - or it may not. As for quilting, there are quilt guilds here. Quilting Sisters in Leesburg and Lake County Quilters, who just had their annual quilt show this past Fri & Sat. And most other adult communities in the area all have their own quilting clubs. Relax and enjoy shopping around for your new home.