Lots to Love About Life at Ashby Ponds

When Noel and Ann Widdifield moved to Ashby Ponds, an Erickson Senior Living community in Ashburn, Va., they didn't have to travel far. As Leesburg, Va., residents, their new home was just a short drive away.

This proximity was a significant draw for the couple, but Ashby Ponds offers many other benefits they wanted in retirement, including a worry-free lifestyle, meaningful connections, and peace of mind for the future.

Tribune recently asked Noel and Ann how they know they made the right decision and why they're encouraging others to make the move sooner rather than later.

Tribune: What led you to consider Ashby Ponds?

Ann: Years ago, we built a house on the Chesapeake Bay that we absolutely loved. Eventually, we moved to Leesburg to be closer to our children, Julie and David, and their families. Moving to a retirement community wasn't on our radar, but then we began seeing friends move, some because of unexpected health issues that forced them to make decisions quickly.

Watching that happen made us realize that we should start planning while we still had the opportunity to choose what was right for us. When we began visiting communities, Ashby Ponds quickly rose to the top of our list.

Tribune: What prompted you to make the move?

Ann: While we were away in Florida, a Quincy residence became available. Our daughter Julie toured it with us over FaceTime, and we immediately loved the spacious layout, large windows, and fifth-floor location. It reminded us of the homes we'd loved before, so we knew it was the right fit.

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

Ann: It's wonderful not having to worry about maintaining a house anymore. We don't miss taking care of a lawn, handling repairs, or even changing light bulbs. Instead of worrying about household responsibilities, we spend our time doing the things we enjoy. One of the things that attracted us to Ashby Ponds was having so many restaurants. We both enjoyed cooking over the years, but it's nice knowing that we don't have to anymore, unless we want to.

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

Noel: One of the first things I did was join the model train club. We are building an HO-scale layout for the community's train show. I'm also active in the aviation club. As a former Air Force pilot, it's been rewarding to meet other residents who flew or supported military aircraft.

Ann: I participate in fitness classes, have learned how to play mah-jongg, participate in a book club, and enjoy spending time with our neighbors. Our residence building regularly hosts gatherings, and it's been a wonderful way to get to know people.

Tribune: You mentioned meeting people. Is it easy to make friends at Ashby Ponds?

Ann: It's remarkably easy to make friends here! People quickly become more than neighbors. We have a dinner group that gets together every month. We enjoy each other's company. One thing that really stands out is how thoughtful people are. Unexpected acts of kindness happen here all the time. That's what makes this community so special.

Tribune: How has your move provided peace of mind?

Ann: Our move has provided tremendous peace of mind--for us and for our family. We had already begun changing physicians after moving to Leesburg, so transitioning to the on-site medical center worked out perfectly. We've been very pleased with the care we've received.

To us, one of the greatest gifts parents can give their children is planning ahead. We have our wishes documented and our plans in place, so Julie and David won't have to make difficult decisions on our behalf. Having that peace of mind means a great deal to all of us.

Tribune: What advice do you have for someone considering a move to Ashby Ponds?

Ann: My biggest piece of advice is simple: Don't wait too long! We moved while we're still active and able to enjoy everything the community has to offer. Looking back, moving sooner rather than later was one of the best decisions we made.

Noel: Our children and grandchildren love visiting us. We no longer need a large house for everyone to gather. Instead, they come to Ashby Ponds, and we enjoy spending time together here. Every visit reminds us that we made the right choice.

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

By Kelly Shue