By Laurie Whittier
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

Without the hassles of homeownership, residents of Tanglewood Creek will have more time to spend on things like travel, recreation, hobbies, and volunteering. And on-site conveniences free up even more time.

“The clubhouse amenities are time-savers for us,” says Sue Lillie, who moved with her husband, John, last spring to a community by Erickson, the developer of Tanglewood Creek. From the salon to the bank to the fitness center, daily errands take less time, she says.

Staying fit is more convenient, too, says Mr. Lillie. “We both like to exercise, but it’s never been as easy as it is now. Before, we both went to separate gyms, and all those trips really added up.”

The right decision
At first, the Lillies weren’t sure they were ready to move to a retirement community. But they’re so glad they changed their minds.

“We lived in an older home for 33 years, and the maintenance projects began adding up,” says Mrs. Lillie. “I saw myself getting locked into endless chores while John spent most of his time and energy on the house, and that’s not how I wanted to live.”

Today the Lillies are living the kind of life they always envisioned—going on hiking trips in Europe and racking up hundreds of miles riding their bikes together. Since they no longer have to spend time and money on their house, they’re traveling more than ever.

“Now we’re free to use more time for ourselves rather than plan everything around home maintenance,” says Mr. Lillie.

Get more out of life
North-metro residents will enjoy similar lifestyle changes when Tanglewood Creek opens in 2010. And with so many things to do in the area, there will be no shortage of enjoyable activities to take the place of homeowner chores.

Tanglewood Creek’s clubhouse will come alive with activities spearheaded by residents. Activities at Erickson communities number in the hundreds, with daily offerings ranging from aqua aerobics to woodworking.