Some writers and poets start their stories with Once Upon A Time. My story will be no different...

Once upon a time I decided to make a drastic change in my life. After 70 years of marriage, I found myself alone, sad, and feeling sorry for myself. 

My daughter suggested I look at some senior living communities closer to her and my granddaughters. Initially I was not interested, but after some consideration I decided to visit one and get more information. There were so many amenities and things to do, I thought this might actually be okay! 

After living in the same house for 35 years, and in a little village that I loved so much, I finally made up my mind. I wanted my “Golden Years” to be just that...Golden.

My 11-year-old Schnauzer, Chester, and I moved to that community and my daughter and granddaughters visit me and walk Chester. Chester and I have made a lot of friends, many who, it turns out, had been in similar situations before moving in, and we talk like we have known each other forever. 

I feel so loved and cared for here; safe and secure. Perhaps you are wondering how this story ends? It seems I did the right thing! I know this story is about me (and Chester), but just so you know, our Golden Years are golden! By the way, the senior community I moved to is Waltonwood. Be kind to others!