While my husband and I were living on the East Coast, we created a list of what we wanted in retirement. We were looking for opportunities to connect with people, the ability to pursue old and new interests, outdoor activities, lifelong learning, some “foodie” experiences, and a spiritual home. Our own religion is a small denomination, so that availability was critical to us. We knew an Arizona snowbird, Barbara Gates, who tempted us to rent in SCOV . Once here, it took all of six weeks to find ourselves as new homeowners. Why here? Well, we reviewed our list of “Must haves” and found Sun City and Tucson met all our needs and wants and a very special one -- the wood workshop of my husband’s dreams. We are grateful and thankful for this rich life available to us in Sun City Oro Valley, and we are mindful of our responsibility to maintain its many wonderful aspects as we’ve branched into greater community roles.

Theda Ellis