how much keeping up with the house was keeping me from my friends, my hobbies and from paying attention to my health.

I'm amazed at how much better I feel at Farnham Manor. The staff make sure I take my medication, I eat regularly and somebody else is responsible for the cooking, cleaning and laundry for a change.

to do the things I enjoy and try some new ones, too. There's so much to choose from: craft and exercise classes; sing-a-longs; bingo; shopping trips, religious services; socials and parties. It wasn't long before I was taking part.

I made a whole group of friends when I joined the Book Club. Our discussions are more stimulating for the different paths we took to Farnham Manor. The staff understand that food for thought is as important to our health as meals and medication.

  They worry about me just like the children do if I'm not eating or seem out of sorts. They don't pressure me to accept help I don't want. I like having it both ways: I prefer to be self-reliant, but appreciate a helping hand when I need it.

I look forward to mealtime for the companionship as much as the food. I enjoy lingering over dessert with the Johnsons (they live independently at the Farnham Manor Villas next door but take their meals here). Summer is our favorite season, when lots of fresh berries from local farms top the home-made desserts.

to take a walk every morning on a paved foot-path that wanders through the pines. There are plenty of places to stop and sit along the way if I get tired. My favorite spot is the gazebo. There's nothing but farmland as far as I can see. No noisy traffic. The air is crystal clear. I feel safe in this tiny rural community.

Yesterday, I made another friend during my walk. She was tending roses in a little garden she keeps behind The Manor. She offered me some cuttings and advice on how to get them started. We're going to set them out in my own garden next spring. I'd almost forgotten how much pleasure gardening brings me. Remember all the ribbons we won at the country fair?

because Farnham Manor is so easy to get to. The grandchildren like nothing better than to play hide-and-seek in the rows of corn that surround us all summer long. Sometimes, they check in to a nearby hotel, inn or waterfront resort and combine our visit with a relaxing, family getaway.

The rooms are furnished, or you can bring your own things. The Oriental rug it took us years to save for holds pride of place. The children even had our living room draperies remade to fit my window! There's plenty of room for my favorite chair -- and yours.

When I sold the house, I thought I was selling out. But I'll always have a place for my family, friends and memories. I take them with me wherever I go.