Everyone has their own unique story when it comes to the choices they make for retirement.
But the one thing that residents at Fox Run, the Erickson Senior Living community in Novi, Mich., have in common is the desire to experience a vibrant, engaging lifestyle supported by a robust offering of amenities, resources, and services.
Since moving to Fox Run in October 2023, Pete and Jeaneane Havstad have made the most of their new lifestyle.
"There's so much to do, and the residents here are really happy and nice! It was just what we were looking for," says Jeaneane.
Recently, Tribune sat down with the couple to learn more about what motivated them to make the move to Fox Run and how their lives have changed for the better.
Tribune: What motivated you to move to Fox Run?
Pete: We were pretty much paying for everything to be done for us--lawn care, gardening, cleaning. That's when we started to consider Fox Run. The maintenance-free living aspect was really attractive! If we need anything taken care of, even something as simple has having a lightbulb replaced, we just call General Services. They're so responsive, too.
Jeaneane: Fox Run has an awesome reputation. That made a big difference in our decision! We also knew that it was time to start planning for the future. We witnessed many friends fall into situations where their kids needed to make decisions for them, and we didn't want that to happen to our family. So, we set out on finding a retirement community where we would enjoy living for many years to come--before our children needed to help care for us.
Tribune: Did you utilize any of Fox Run's realty and moving services?
Pete: Yes! Everyone was great. A consultant came to our house to help us envision what would fit in our two-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath apartment home. She also gave us a list of organizations that would take donations, and we used that to a great extent when we were downsizing. We packed some things, but the moving service we worked with did most of it--like everything in the kitchen and all of our artwork. They also handled all of the items that were being donated and discarded.
Jeaneane: Thanks to everyone's help, our move was stress-free! The clothes that the movers packed didn't even have to be ironed because they were so careful. We chose to do the unpacking with our family so our kids, their spouses, and our grandkids could help out and get familiar with our new home. When we were finished, the movers came back and took away the empty boxes and crates.
Tribune: Now that you're settled in, what's it like living at Fox Run?
Pete: Totally worry-free. In our old house, on top of paying for indoor and outdoor maintenance, we never knew when an appliance was going to break. Now, our one predictable monthly cost covers everything.
Jeaneane: I love that it's so quiet and peaceful in the residence buildings. When we lived in a condo, there was so much noise. But, once you're out and about in the community, everywhere is bustling with activity.
Tribune: How do you get involved on campus?
Pete: I hope to join the golf group. I use the pool and fitness center two or three times a week, and I enjoy that a lot. We like to attend movies here each week, too.
Jeaneane: I want to look into the political groups on campus. We also want to become involved in the interesting programs and events organized by the Diversity & Inclusion Committee. And both of us are card players, so we can't wait to get some games started. While I really love to cook, and still do so quite often, we frequent Fox Run's restaurants. Our new neighbors have reached out to have dinner with us, and it's been a lot of fun!
Tribune: What does your family think about your move?
Pete: Moving to Fox Run was a gift--to us and to our kids. Everyone has peace of mind knowing that, if we ever need more support in the future, there are so many resources and levels of care on campus.
Jeaneane: Now, speaking as a resident, I can confirm that Fox Run's awesome reputation is well deserved. Our kids are so happy for us, and they love eating dinner at the restaurants too!
Invest in your future self at Fox Run. From top-notch amenities to affordable, maintenance-free apartment homes, you are sure to live your retirement to the fullest. Request more information today!