One day Bro. Edward Beaman, Coraopolis Lodge No. 674, looked slowly around his backyard shed at all the maintenance equipment and machines he had accumulated. He suddenly realized that far too much of his time was being spent changing oil and filters and generally keeping up with the homestead. "There is so much enjoyment in life besides cutting grass, painting, and worrying about someone breaking into your home," said the future resident of the Masonic Village at Sewickley. This realization began an exciting interest in retirement living for him and his wife, Catherine.

Bro. Beaman, a member of Coraopolis Lodge No. 674, Coraopolis, feels that once you reach 60, it's time to start thinking about downsizing and beginning to appreciate life. While he enjoyed his many years working for a major steel producer, now is the time that he and Catherine look forward to enjoying the best years of their lives. Mrs. Beaman, a member of the Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania, Order of The Eastern Star, also enjoyed a successful career as a secretary while together they raised three children.

The Beamans were among the earliest to reserve retirement living apartments at the new lifecare community. They had been to Elizabethtown on a Masonic outing and fell in love with the vast campus. However, it was just too far from their friends and church. When they received a survey inquiring about interest in a community in Sewickley, they responded with excitement. It seems the Beamans were not alone.

As ground is being leveled for the first retirement living apartment complex, its units are already more than 40 percent reserved as future residents can choose between eight different floor plans, including one- and two-bedroom apartments. In November the now fully occupied Star Points Building for assisted living was completed.

The Beamans selected a two-bedroom apartment with a balcony. "We like the big kitchen and big closets and we want to have our morning coffee out on the balcony," Mrs. Beaman explained. "The apartments are very spacious but not overbearing."

Recently, as the Beamans visited Catherine's mother twice a day in the Valley Care Masonic Center, the Masonic Village at Sewickley's health care center, they experienced a new appreciation for the entire community. Bro. Beaman shared, "Having 'Grandma' in the nursing center gives us good insight into what the Masonic Village (at Sewickley) is capable of." With a daughter involved in social services, the Beamans appreciate that not all nursing care achieves the level of quality found at the Valley Care Masonic Center.

They also know that not everyone is fortunate enough to enjoy the lifestyle that the Masonic Village at Sewickley offers. After retiring, Bro. Beaman decided that they had been so blessed in life that it was time to give something back. They are now involved in delivering Meals on Wheels and he serves as a "roadrunner," transporting children who are in need of specialized surgery. Delivering meals to the elderly who are often trapped in their homes has provided a unique perspective on where life can take you, the Beamans said.

The Beamans are now looking forward to walking the trails around the campus and taking advantage of the fitness center. Bro. Beaman is also looking forward to being able to just lock the door and travel without worrying. "My wife deserves this nice place," Mr. Beaman adds with a smile.

You, too, deserve a fulfilling lifestyle! For more information about retirement living at the Masonic Village at Sewickley, please call toll free 1-(866)-972-0664 or print, complete and return the coupon.