Lovi and Dick have been married for 50 years. When they moved into The Woodlands at Otterbein Sunset , the couple decorated their 1,100-square-foot apartment with belongings that reflect a lifetime together: favorite furniture pieces, treasured artwork, and cherished souvenirs from past travels. They are as comfortable in their personalized living space as they are with each other.
Choosing Otterbein Sunset House
Before moving to The Woodlands, Lovi and Dick lived in Ottawa Hills for 30 years. When they resolved to trade home upkeep for more time to enjoy their favorite activities, the successful couple had countless options. But they chose The Woodlands for one particular reason.
A former Sunset Communities trustee, Dick chaired the organization's board during The Woodlands' construction project in the 1990s.
"The board wanted The Woodlands to feel as homelike as possible for future residents," he recalls. "We only used top-notch building materials, and we took extra care to maintain the natural setting."
The couple's second-floor apartment overlooks a wooded courtyard, and large windows in their living room, den, and bedroom reveal striking seasonal scenes. Looking down on the walking path and park-style benches below, one imagines viewing Central Park from a Manhattan flat.
"We never considered moving anywhere else," says Lovi. "It's a small, friendly, and vibrant community with a fun and respectful staff. We felt at home immediately.”
Asked to reveal the secret to their long and successful marriage, Dick has a quick answer. "A good marriage comes down to a single word," he says mischievously. "Yes."
Lovi's laugh is that of someone who has heard that joke many times. "It's a word we both have to be willing to say, wouldn't you agree?" she asks, poking her husband playfully.
"Yes," he says as if to prove his point.
Fifty years and counting.
Learn More About The Woodlands at Otterbein Sunset House
Enjoy upscale retirement living at The Woodlands. With a variety of spacious one- and two-bedroom floor plans, you'll find an option that's perfect for your lifestyle.
