Marilyn and Bob relocated from a San Francisco community to White Sands La Jolla, drawn by the beautiful beaches, ideal climate and proximity to loved ones. Choosing a community-oriented lifestyle aligned perfectly with the couple’s core values of personal wellness, sustainability and human connection.
The couple actually discovered White Sands La Jolla by chance while visiting family in San Diego, which led to a tour of the community. "As soon as we walked through the doors and saw the breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean, we were hooked," Marilyn recalls, adding that, "The idea of being close to family, coupled with the beauty of White Sands, was too enticing to pass up."
The relocation provided Bob with fresh avenues to champion environmental causes. As an active participant on the campus green committee, he helps drive eco-friendly and sustainable initiatives.
"Being environmentally conscious is a way of life for me," Bob explains. "I love being involved in many of the green committee’s projects that contribute to a healthier planet for future generations."
Under his leadership, the committee launched a program allowing residents to donate gently used clothing to nearby homeless shelters. Beyond his environmental work, Bob is a trailblazer in the field of sports psychology and a bestselling author.
Retirement has allowed Marilyn, a former educator and family therapist, to pursue her own personal evolution. At 65, she made the transition to a vegan lifestyle, earned her yoga instructor certification and began leading yoga sessions for her neighbors.
Both Marilyn and Bob passionately support the arts, frequently participating in community-sponsored excursions to The Old Globe and the La Jolla Playhouse. Marilyn even went back to school to earn an MFA in playwriting, leading to international readings and productions of her scripts. Her latest creative endeavor is writing a memoir titled Confessions of a Marriage Counselor.
The couple has fully integrated into their new surroundings. "Through the richness of White Sands programs both within the community and outside, we have quickly felt like locals," Bob notes. "Our story is a testament to the power of Life Plan Communities to not only provide an engaging lifestyle but also to foster connections with new friends and family. We are living proof that, with the right environment, this next chapter in your life can be a time of growth, passion and meaningful engagement with the world around you."
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