Lots to Love About Life at Highland Springs

Dallas, Tex., native Patty Hoover lived and worked in Story, Wyo., for 30 years before returning to her hometown earlier this year with a move to Highland Springs, an Erickson Senior Living community in North Dallas, Tex.

With a brother and sister-in-law living at Highland Springs for five years, Patty was already familiar with the community's vibrant, worry-free lifestyle--something she envisioned for her own retirement.

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Recently, Patty sat down with the Tribune to share her story and how she knows she made the right decision.

Tribune: What led you to consider Highland Springs?

Patty: I have always liked Highland Springs. I would come down a couple times a year to visit my brother and his wife and met a lot of people. They made so many good friends who became my friends. I loved the social atmosphere.

I was also drawn to the ease of life and the stunning scenery. In Wyoming, I lived in the mountains, so I did not see sunsets.

Tribune: What prompted you to make the move?

Patty: I've been a widow for nine years, and I was living in a 1,800-square-foot house with a 3,600-square-foot guest house next door. I had large acreage with no sprinkler system. With all the responsibilities, I used to get in 27,000 steps a day! I got tired of all the maintenance and upkeep.

Tribune: How was your move from Wyoming? Did Highland Springs help in any way?

Patty: When it came time to move, I used Highland Springs' recommended movers. They came to Wyoming and were absolutely wonderful. In addition to all my belongings, I had them bring my car down, too, which was very convenient. Once they arrived at Highland Springs, I had them unpack boxes and put up my pictures.

Tribune: How has your maintenance-free residence improved your life?

Patty: I live in a one-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath residence with a den that overlooks Bluebonnet Lake, and I love it! It has freed up quite a bit of time. Now, I have no yard work, no property tax, and no homeowner's insurance.

Plus, the community's General Services team is wonderful. They handle all home maintenance requests. When they say they're going to be there between nine and noon, they really are.

Tribune: What are some ways you've gotten involved on campus?

Patty: With more free time, I have more opportunities to join clubs and activities. I like to volunteer with the Resident Life team by setting up for community events. I enjoyed the Mardi Gras event, and we recently had a Beach Boys tribute band on campus. I also joined the widows' group and a book club.

There are four fitness centers here with classes like Zumba and Pump It Up. I walk two miles around the lake every morning, and I like to participate in aquacise--that's where I met a bunch of my friends. We have a girls night out at least once a week.

Tribune: How has your move provided peace of mind?

Patty: One of the reasons I'm here is because of my health. While I was drawn to the lifestyle here, I also appreciated the convenient access to health care, including the on-site medical center. One of the first things I did after moving in was schedule an appointment at the medical center. They were so great in referring me to specialists.

Tribune: Are there any other conveniences you appreciate?

Patty: Yes! There is a pharmacy on site, which comes in handy. My brother's in charge of the greenhouse here, and we share a garden plot. We've planted melons as well as milkweed, which attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.

I also enjoy meals with my brother and his wife at the restaurants here. The food is so good, especially the fish. During my first week, I ordered nothing but salmon, flounder, halibut, haddock, and tuna.

Tribune: What do you love most about living at Highland Springs?

Patty: Life is very easy here. While I'm no longer near friends in Wyoming, I'm enjoying meeting new people and hearing about their lives. I also had existing friends at Highland Springs to reconnect with, which was nice. It's a different stage of life here, but in the best way!

To learn more about vibrant, carefree senior living, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and much more.

By Susan Ingram