Enjoying An Engaging Lifestyle at Ashby Ponds

"Living at Ashby Ponds is like living in a resort," says Grace Weigel, who moved to the Erickson Senior Living community in Ashburn, Va., in 2021. "I no longer worry about maintenance and repairs. Instead, I have more time to meet wonderful, interesting people who've quickly become friends." 

One of those friends, Julian Cole, captured Grace's heart. The couple, who met at an on-campus Bible study, were married this past March in the banquet hall, served by the outstanding catering team at Ashby Ponds.

"It was a pleasant surprise for both of us," says Julian. "Neither of us thought about marrying again!"

Now, the newlyweds are making the most of their carefree lifestyle by utilizing the community's industry-leading amenities and participating in numerous clubs and activities. 

A chance encounter

Drawn to Ashby Ponds' vibrant community life, both Grace and Julian had planned to move to the community with their former spouses. However, each lost their loved one before making the move. As a result, they moved to Ashby Ponds on their own--a decision that unknowingly changed their lives.

"I'm thankful that I was at the Bible study the day Grace walked in," says Julian. "We started chatting and discovered mutual interests and friends. So, I invited her to dinner. From there, it was dinner after dinner."

"We fell in love over dessert and decaf," says Grace, with a smile. 

"Grace and Julian are a beautiful example of how, through the pursuit of interests and hobbies, Ashby Ponds residents develop meaningful relationships," says Resident Life Director Faith Edwards. 

With a creative arts studio, fitness center, putting green, pickleball court, performing arts theater, TV studio, and nine restaurants on campus, there are plenty of opportunities to meet new neighbors and make friends. 

Carefree living

Although Grace and Julian were attracted to Ashby Ponds' engaging lifestyle, their maintenance-free apartment homes have proven to be a real benefit. 

"When my former husband died, I couldn't handle the house and the yard. It was overwhelming. Since moving to my lovely apartment home, I don't miss my house at all--or the concerns that went with it," recalls Grace, who now has plenty of time for activities. 

"At Ashby Ponds, everything is taken care of, from the furnace to the air conditioner," says Julian. "I no longer have to worry about reroofing my house or working in the yard. There is a great deal of relief in that sense."

With their newfound free time, Grace and Julian fill their calendars with activities that give back to the community they proudly call home. 

"We really love our life at Ashby Ponds," says Julian. "We enjoy a great sense of community and friendship. As a result, many of our activities focus on supporting fellow residents."

Giving back

Julian initiated a mobility device lending program, which has garnered lots of praise. 

"We keep devices such as wheelchairs and walkers to lend out to neighbors for the short term," he says. "It's a great option for someone coming back from a hospital stay. One less thing to worry about, you know?"

Each Wednesday afternoon, Grace sings and plays the piano for church services at Maple Grove, Ashby Ponds' continuing care neighborhood. 

"It's rewarding, watching the residents worship together through songs," says Grace, who also teaches ESL (English as a second language) to dining and housekeeping staff.

In addition to their volunteer efforts, Grace and Julian take advantage of Ashby Ponds' wide range of entertainment options.

"Each week, there are movies and a variety of presentations," says Julian. "There are also many forms of musical entertainment, such as the drama club's recent production of Oklahoma!" 

"All of the concerts hosted here are wonderful too," says Grace. "I especially enjoy the military musical ensembles, as well as performances from visiting George Mason University music students."

Growing circle of friends

Just as Grace and Julian found each other, the couple continues to meet new neighbors--and strengthen the friendships they've fostered. 

"When we moved to Ashby Ponds, we were both still in the grieving process," says Julian. "Our neighbors reached out, inviting us to dinner and offering to stop by. As a result, we developed meaningful friendships with wonderful neighbors."

Julian and Grace, recently celebrating six months since their wedding, look forward to spending more time together and with fellow residents. 

"You can't help but make friends here!" says Grace. "Moving to Ashby Ponds was the best move we could have made. We are very, very happy."

Invest in your future self at Ashby Ponds. From top-notch amenities to affordable, maintenance-free apartment homes, you are sure to live your retirement to the fullest. Request more information today!